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Steering column assembly
Steering column
The steering column is attached, at the lower end, to a flexible coupling by means of a clamp plate and bolt and the flexible coupling, in turn, is attached to the steering gear pinion shaft with a pinch bolt. The flexible coupling's entry into the engine compartment is protected by a floor seal.
The steering column incorporates a well proven multi-position steering lock with a high security lock barrel.
The 98½ MY Mondeo has a revised steering column shaft, which incorporates an improved anti-theft device to meet new regulations. If whilst the steering column lock is engaged, an excessive force greater than 100 Nm is applied to the steering wheel, a tolerance slip ring on the steering column shaft will allow the steering wheel to rotate thus preventing damage to the steering lock and column assemblies.
The steering column assembly is fitted to the vehicle cross beam assembly with four bolts.
All vehicles have an adjustable reach and height steering column that is operated by a lever on the left-hand side of the column.
Flexible coupling
The steering gear pinion is connected to the steering column via a flexible coupling. The coupling is fixed to the pinion with a pinch bolt and to the column with a clamp plate and bolt.
