Steering Column Lower Shaft Assembly

The steering column lower shaft assembly comprises 2 splined shafts connected by a universal joint in the center.

The upper collapse shaft has a flexible coupling at its upper end. The flexible coupling controls axial and torsional movements and also assists with noise and vibration damping. The flexible coupling is fitted with a shaft plate which has a boss with machined flats on it. The flats provide positive location on the upper column outer clamping yoke. A cut-out in the boss allows for the fitment of a clamping bolt to secure the upper column outer clamping yoke. The cut-out ensures that the lower shaft assembly can only be fitted in one orientation.

The upper collapse shaft is connected to the stopper plate of the flexible coupling with splines. The stopper plate is connected to the shaft plate via the flexible coupling and is secured with rivets. The upper collapse shaft has a series of splines which engage with the upper tube. The splines allow the upper collapse shaft to slide into the upper tube in the event of an accident.

The upper tube is positively connected to the upper universal joint. A plastic tube is located around the upper tube and provides for the attachment of a boot which seals the lower shaft assembly where it passes through the vehicle bulkhead.

The upper UJ is attached to the lower tube which in turn is located over the lower shaft on splines. The teeth tube is fitted with a tolerance ring which provides resistance to movement of the splines on the lower shaft. The splines of the lower shaft allow it to slide into the lower tube with the tolerance ring controlling the collapse.

The lower shaft is fitted with a UJ which provides the attachment to the torsion bar of the steering gear.