Steering Rattle

[lwrlead]

 

Does anyone else feel a rattle in the steering when going around corners or hitting bumps? Not only can I feel it, but I can slightly hear it. Any ideas what the problem may be and what the fix is? I drive a 2004 GMC Sierra 1500. Thanks

[Bish]

Does anyone else feel a rattle in the steering when going around corners or hitting bumps?  Not only can I feel it, but I can slightly hear it.  Any ideas what the problem may be and what the fix is?  I drive a 2004 GMC Sierra 1500.  Thanks

 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

 

 

Look at the sticky's at the top of this forum. You need to lube the intermediate steering shaft. I just did mine last weekend and it took less than 30 minutes and is simple. The sticky gives complete directions with pictures. Beware, it is only a temporary fix as it will come back sooner or later.

[Rylandnc]

Does anyone else feel a rattle in the steering when going around corners or hitting bumps?  Not only can I feel it, but I can slightly hear it.  Any ideas what the problem may be and what the fix is?  I drive a 2004 GMC Sierra 1500.  Thanks

 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

 

 

It does sound like the steering shaft lube issue. Mine was doing the same thing and the dealer performed the service bulletin under warranty.

[green03sierra]

I just had mine done today by the dealer. The service manager told me it is recomended by GM to re pack the shaft with grease then if the noise comes back which he said it probably would they will replace the entire shaft. He also said sometimes it fixes it completely . Now I'm waiting for my ride to the dealer to pick it up.

[Guest chevydeerhunter]

I just had mine done today by the dealer. The service manager told me it is recomended by GM to re pack the shaft with grease then if the noise comes back which he said it probably would they will replace the entire shaft. He also said sometimes it fixes it completely  . Now I'm waiting for my ride to the dealer to pick it up.

 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

 

 

I've been lucky with mine. 2 1/2 years after the repack and no steering knock.

 

[Jansen]

I have the exact same issue. Dealer "fixed" mine under warranty. I think the fix lasted maybe 1000 miles. It is back now.

 

Jansen

[pugs47]

Is there any recent news on this problem....I am experiencing it right now and dealer is talking about the lube kit.... Can steering shaft be replaced or do I have to settle for the quick/temp fix??

[2004GMC1500CC]

Is there any recent news on this problem....I am experiencing it right now and dealer is talking about the lube kit.... Can steering shaft be replaced or do I have to settle for the quick/temp fix??

 

GM is no longer doing the lube, there is another replacement shaft. Had mine installed with 40k+ miles at no cost and haven't had any issues since (its been about 6 months now).

[obyone]

Is there any recent news on this problem....I am experiencing it right now and dealer is talking about the lube kit.... Can steering shaft be replaced or do I have to settle for the quick/temp fix??

 

GM is no longer doing the lube, there is another replacement shaft. Had mine installed with 40k+ miles at no cost and haven't had any issues since (its been about 6 months now).

 

 

 

Document ID# 1893252

 

Subject: Clunking Noise Under Hood and Can Be Felt in Steering Wheel and/or Steering Column (Replace Upper Intermediate Steering Shaft (I-Shaft) Assembly) #00-02-35-003M - (01/31/2007)

 

Models: 2002-2006 Cadillac Escalade Models

 

1999-2007 Chevrolet Silverado Models (Classic)

 

2000-2006 Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe Models

 

2002-2006 Chevrolet Avalanche

 

1999-2007 GMC Sierra Models (Classic)

 

2000-2006 GMC Yukon, Yukon XL Models

 

2003-2006 HUMMER H2

 

 

 

Attention: This Service Bulletin DOES NOT include Mid-Size Utilities such as Buick Rainier, Chevrolet TrailBlazer Models, GMC Envoy Models or Oldsmobile Bravada. Refer to Service Bulletin 02-02-35-006A or newer for Mid-Size Utilities.

 

 

 

This bulletin is being revised to update the repair procedure with a permanent fix.

 

Condition

Some customers may comment on a clunk-type noise coming from under the hood that also can be felt in the steering wheel. These conditions may be more noticeable when turning at low speeds on rough road surfaces.

 

Diagnostic Tips

Use the information below to help diagnose the source of the noise.

 

• Frame Snap and/or Popping Type Noise -- A frame snap or popping type noise can be duplicated on rough or smooth road surfaces with steering wheel input to the left or the right. This type of noise can be HEARD and is typically louder with the windows rolled down. For additional information, refer to Corporate Bulletin Number 03-08-61-002F or newer -- Snap/Popping Type Noise Coming from Front of Vehicle (Remove Front Crossmember, Change Fastener Orientation).

 

• Intermediate Shaft Clunk -- Intermediate shaft clunk is heard and FELT in the steering wheel and/or steering column area, typically while driving on rough road surfaces with steering wheel input.

 

Correction

DO THIS

DON'T DO THIS

 

Replace the I-Shaft with P/N 19153614.

Do NOT lubricate or exercise the I-Shaft.

 

 

Important:

 

• I-shaft P/N 19153614 has been designed to replace previous designed dampened and non-dampened I-shafts. The physical difference in the yoke size will accommodate all vehicles listed in this bulletin.

 

• Due to the design of the new I-shaft, it is not possible to lubricate/grease the I-shaft.

 

 

Replace the steering column upper intermediate shaft with an improved design shaft that will eliminate the clunk noise using the procedure listed below.

 

Set the front wheels in the straight ahead position.

Notice: On the 2002 and later model year vehicles, the steering column LOCK was removed from the steering column. It is critical that the J 42640 - Steering column Anti-Rotation Pin is used when servicing steering columns on 2002 and later model year vehicles. Failure to use the J 42640 may result in damage to the SIR coil.

 

Set the steering wheel in the LOCK position on 2001 and prior model year vehicles.

 

 

 

For 2002 and later vehicles, install the J 42640 in the steering column lower access hole.

 

 

 

From under the hood, remove the lower bolt that connects the upper intermediate shaft to the steering gear coupling shaft.

Slide the shaft towards the dash in order to disengage the shaft from the steering gear coupling shaft.

For vehicles equipped with adjustable foot pedals, perform the following steps:

6.1. Reposition the carpet away from the accelerator pedal position (APP) sensor.

 

6.2. Remove the two nuts retaining the accelerator pedal to the bulkhead.

 

6.3. Reposition the accelerator pedal out of the way so the intermediate shaft can be removed.

 

 

 

 

 

From inside the vehicle, remove the upper bolt from the upper intermediate steering shaft (1) to the steering column connection.

Remove the upper intermediate steering shaft assembly.

8.1. From inside the vehicle, slide the shaft down and off the steering column.

 

8.2. From inside the vehicle, slide the upper intermediate shaft through the dash boot seal and remove the shaft from the vehicle.

 

Replace the upper intermediate shaft.

Install the upper intermediate steering shaft through the dash boot seal and slide the lower end into the steering gear coupling shaft.

Raise the upper end of the intermediate steering shaft and install into the steering column shaft.

Install the upper bolt and nut.

Tighten

Tighten the bolt to 47 N•m (35 lb ft).

 

Install the lower bolt and nut.

Tighten

Tighten the bolt to 50 N•m (37 lb ft).

 

For vehicles equipped with adjustable foot pedals, perform the following steps:

14.1. Reposition the accelerator pedals into position on the bulkhead.

 

14.2. Install the two retaining nuts.

 

Tighten

Tighten the nuts to 20 N•m (15 lb ft).

 

14.3. Reposition the carpet into place.

 

Parts Information

Part Number

Description

 

19153614

Shaft - Upper Intermediate Steering

 

 

Warranty Information

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:

 

Labor Operation

Description

Labor Time

 

E7700

Shaft, Steering Intermediate - Upper -- Replace

Use Published Labor Operation Time

 

 

 

 

GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION

[slappaholic]

Sorry guys; I can't find the sticky on this; I'd love to do it myself.

 

However, is it possible to have the dealer do it on my '02 Yukon XL even though it is out of warranty (55K miles)?

 

Thanks!

Slappy

[Misawan]

Is there any recent news on this problem....I am experiencing it right now and dealer is talking about the lube kit.... Can steering shaft be replaced or do I have to settle for the quick/temp fix??

 

GM is no longer doing the lube, there is another replacement shaft. Had mine installed with 40k+ miles at no cost and haven't had any issues since (its been about 6 months now).

 

 

 

Document ID# 1893252

 

Subject: Clunking Noise Under Hood and Can Be Felt in Steering Wheel and/or Steering Column (Replace Upper Intermediate Steering Shaft (I-Shaft) Assembly) #00-02-35-003M - (01/31/2007)

 

Models: 2002-2006 Cadillac Escalade Models

 

1999-2007 Chevrolet Silverado Models (Classic)

 

2000-2006 Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe Models

 

2002-2006 Chevrolet Avalanche

 

1999-2007 GMC Sierra Models (Classic)

 

2000-2006 GMC Yukon, Yukon XL Models

 

2003-2006 HUMMER H2

 

 

 

Attention: This Service Bulletin DOES NOT include Mid-Size Utilities such as Buick Rainier, Chevrolet TrailBlazer Models, GMC Envoy Models or Oldsmobile Bravada. Refer to Service Bulletin 02-02-35-006A or newer for Mid-Size Utilities.

 

 

 

This bulletin is being revised to update the repair procedure with a permanent fix.

 

Condition

Some customers may comment on a clunk-type noise coming from under the hood that also can be felt in the steering wheel. These conditions may be more noticeable when turning at low speeds on rough road surfaces.

 

Diagnostic Tips

Use the information below to help diagnose the source of the noise.

 

• Frame Snap and/or Popping Type Noise -- A frame snap or popping type noise can be duplicated on rough or smooth road surfaces with steering wheel input to the left or the right. This type of noise can be HEARD and is typically louder with the windows rolled down. For additional information, refer to Corporate Bulletin Number 03-08-61-002F or newer -- Snap/Popping Type Noise Coming from Front of Vehicle (Remove Front Crossmember, Change Fastener Orientation).

 

• Intermediate Shaft Clunk -- Intermediate shaft clunk is heard and FELT in the steering wheel and/or steering column area, typically while driving on rough road surfaces with steering wheel input.

 

Correction

DO THIS

DON'T DO THIS

 

Replace the I-Shaft with P/N 19153614.

Do NOT lubricate or exercise the I-Shaft.

 

 

Important:

 

• I-shaft P/N 19153614 has been designed to replace previous designed dampened and non-dampened I-shafts. The physical difference in the yoke size will accommodate all vehicles listed in this bulletin.

 

• Due to the design of the new I-shaft, it is not possible to lubricate/grease the I-shaft.

 

 

Replace the steering column upper intermediate shaft with an improved design shaft that will eliminate the clunk noise using the procedure listed below.

 

Set the front wheels in the straight ahead position.

Notice: On the 2002 and later model year vehicles, the steering column LOCK was removed from the steering column. It is critical that the J 42640 - Steering column Anti-Rotation Pin is used when servicing steering columns on 2002 and later model year vehicles. Failure to use the J 42640 may result in damage to the SIR coil.

 

Set the steering wheel in the LOCK position on 2001 and prior model year vehicles.

 

 

 

For 2002 and later vehicles, install the J 42640 in the steering column lower access hole.

 

 

 

From under the hood, remove the lower bolt that connects the upper intermediate shaft to the steering gear coupling shaft.

Slide the shaft towards the dash in order to disengage the shaft from the steering gear coupling shaft.

For vehicles equipped with adjustable foot pedals, perform the following steps:

6.1. Reposition the carpet away from the accelerator pedal position (APP) sensor.

 

6.2. Remove the two nuts retaining the accelerator pedal to the bulkhead.

 

6.3. Reposition the accelerator pedal out of the way so the intermediate shaft can be removed.

 

 

 

 

 

From inside the vehicle, remove the upper bolt from the upper intermediate steering shaft (1) to the steering column connection.

Remove the upper intermediate steering shaft assembly.

8.1. From inside the vehicle, slide the shaft down and off the steering column.

 

8.2. From inside the vehicle, slide the upper intermediate shaft through the dash boot seal and remove the shaft from the vehicle.

 

Replace the upper intermediate shaft.

Install the upper intermediate steering shaft through the dash boot seal and slide the lower end into the steering gear coupling shaft.

Raise the upper end of the intermediate steering shaft and install into the steering column shaft.

Install the upper bolt and nut.

Tighten

Tighten the bolt to 47 N•m (35 lb ft).

 

Install the lower bolt and nut.

Tighten

Tighten the bolt to 50 N•m (37 lb ft).

 

For vehicles equipped with adjustable foot pedals, perform the following steps:

14.1. Reposition the accelerator pedals into position on the bulkhead.

 

14.2. Install the two retaining nuts.

 

Tighten

Tighten the nuts to 20 N•m (15 lb ft).

 

14.3. Reposition the carpet into place.

 

Parts Information

Part Number

Description

 

19153614

Shaft - Upper Intermediate Steering

 

 

Warranty Information

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:

 

Labor Operation

Description

Labor Time

 

E7700

Shaft, Steering Intermediate - Upper -- Replace

Use Published Labor Operation Time

 

 

 

 

GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thanks for the info. I just made an appt for next week. This has been bugging me for awhile now.

[bmx_02]

I have the same problem with the rattle feeling in the steering wheel and i was wondering if it is the intermediate steering shaft could that also be causeing 1-1.5 inch of play in my steering wheel or is that more than likely another issue? its on an 02 silverado with 180,000 Km and i have had the truck inspected and apperently everything in the front end is still snug and tight... steering gear maybe?