Steering Column: Description and Operation

The steering column used in the Prowler is manufactured by Chrysler Corporation. All vehicles have as standard equipment a multi-position, tilt type steering column.

The base steering column has been designed to be serviced as a complete assembly if a component of the base steering column is diagnosed to be defective.

There are some components though which are attached to the base steering column which are replaceable. The replaceable components of the steering column are as follows: the key cylinder, ignition switch, multi-function switch, clock spring, halo lamp, trim shrouds, air bag module and steering wheel. These replaceable components of the steering column can be serviced without requiring the removal of the steering column from the vehicle. For additional information on the electrical components of the steering column, refer to Group 8H in the electrical group of this service manual.

The steering column used is an energy-absorbing type steering column design. This type of a steering column design allows the steering column to collapse (shorten) in the event the vehicle is involved in a front-end collision.

The steering column used on the Prowler has an anti-theft provision. With the key/lock cylinder turned to the LOCK position, and the key removed, the ignition switch can not be operated and the steering shaft cannot be turned.

The ignition key/lock cylinder and the ignition switch are part of the steering column. The key/lock cylinder is located in the upper housing and the ignition switch is mounted to the jacket of the steering column.