Steering Shaft - Upper

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the upper steering shaft on a 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 engine, addressing issues such as clunking noises, loose steering feel, or worn U-joints.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Upper steering shaft assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and set the parking brake
2. Turn the steering wheel to center the front wheels in the straight-ahead position
3. Disconnect the negative battery cable and wait 10 minutes for the airbag system to discharge
4. Raise the front of the vehicle and support it securely on jack stands
5. Remove the driver's side front wheel for improved access if needed

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove driver's knee bolster and lower steering column covers
   Using the T50 Torx bit, remove the screws securing the lower dash panel below the steering column. Remove the panel to access the steering column. Remove the lower steering column cover screws and separate the upper and lower covers from the column.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Mark steering shaft alignment
   Using a marker or paint pen, mark the orientation of the upper steering shaft to the lower intermediate shaft coupling at the connection point under the dash. Also mark the orientation of the upper shaft to the steering column. These marks are critical for maintaining proper steering wheel alignment during reassembly.
3. 3

   Secure the steering wheel
   Use a steering wheel holder or bungee cord to secure the steering wheel in the centered position. This prevents the clockspring from rotating when the shaft is disconnected. Ensure the wheel cannot move more than a few degrees in either direction.
   ⚠️If the steering wheel is allowed to rotate freely with the shaft disconnected, the clockspring will be damaged and the airbag system will require replacement.
4. 4

   Disconnect upper shaft from intermediate shaft
   Working from underneath the vehicle or from inside the cab (depending on access), locate the coupling bolt connecting the upper steering shaft to the lower intermediate shaft. This is typically located just above the firewall. Using an 18mm wrench, remove the coupling bolt and discard it (a new bolt is typically recommended). Separate the shafts by pulling them apart - do not pry or strike with a hammer.
   ⚠The coupling may be tight due to corrosion. Use penetrating oil if necessary and allow time to soak before attempting removal.
   Torque spec

   Coupling Bolt42 Nm (31 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove upper shaft mounting fasteners
   Locate the mounting bolts securing the upper steering shaft bracket to the steering column assembly. Using a 15mm wrench or socket, remove these mounting bolts. There are typically 2-3 bolts depending on the specific configuration.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove upper steering shaft assembly
   Carefully slide the upper steering shaft upward and out of the steering column. Note the position of any bushings, seals, or spacers and keep them with the old shaft for reference. Inspect the steering column for any damage or excessive wear.
7. 7

   Inspect and prepare new shaft
   Compare the new upper steering shaft to the old unit to verify correct replacement part. Transfer any necessary hardware if not included with the new shaft. Apply a light coat of white lithium grease to the splines and bearing surfaces of the new shaft to ease installation and prevent squeaking.
8. 8

   Install new upper steering shaft
   Insert the new upper steering shaft into the steering column, aligning it with the marks made during disassembly. Ensure any bushings or seals are properly positioned. The shaft should slide in smoothly without forcing.
9. 9

   Install mounting bolts
   Install the mounting bolts securing the upper steering shaft bracket to the steering column. Start all bolts by hand before tightening. Torque the mounting bolts to specification in a cross-pattern to ensure even pressure.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Connect upper shaft to intermediate shaft
    Align the upper steering shaft with the lower intermediate shaft using the alignment marks made during disassembly. The splines must mesh completely - do not force the connection. Install a new coupling bolt and torque to specification. Verify the connection is secure by attempting to pull the shafts apart.
    ⚠Ensure the shaft splines are fully engaged before tightening the coupling bolt. Partial engagement can cause steering failure.
    Torque spec

    Coupling Bolt42 Nm (31 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Verify steering wheel alignment
    Remove the steering wheel holder or bungee cord. Check that the steering wheel is still centered with the front wheels pointing straight ahead. If alignment is off, disconnect the coupling bolt and adjust the shaft position before retightening.
12. 12

    Reinstall steering column covers and knee bolster
    Reinstall the upper and lower steering column covers, ensuring all clips and tabs are properly engaged. Reinstall the cover screws and torque to specification. Reinstall the driver's knee bolster panel and secure with T50 Torx screws.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws14 Nm (10 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reinstall the driver's side front wheel if removed and torque lug nuts to 169 Nm (125 lb-ft) in a star pattern
2. Lower the vehicle from jack stands
3. Reconnect the negative battery cable
4. Start the vehicle and allow the power steering system to initialize
5. Perform a steering wheel relearn procedure using a scan tool if equipped with electric power steering

Verification

• Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock several times while stationary to verify smooth operation with no binding or unusual noises
• Test drive the vehicle at low speed in a safe area, checking for proper steering response, centered wheel position, and absence of clunking or knocking sounds
• Verify the steering wheel returns to center properly after making turns
• Check for any play or looseness in the steering wheel when stationary
• Verify airbag warning light is not illuminated on the instrument cluster
• Re-torque all fasteners after the first 50-100 miles of driving

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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