Sierra 1500 4WD V8-6.0L VIN U (2006)
Passenger Compartment Cross Beam: Description and Operation
Magnesium Instrument Panel Support
Instrument Panel Support
The Instrument Panel Support is a one-piece component comprised of a magnesium steering column support (Fig. 1.21), which holds the
instrumentation and steering column; a die-formed tube attaches to the passenger side and supports the dashboard. This assembly functions as a structural
cross-vehicle beam, air-bag support, and instrument panel carrier, which consolidates many different steel and plastic components.
The magnesium instrument panel support is designed to deform and absorb energy generated by a severe impact.
NOTE: Under no circumstance is the magnesium support to be repaired in any way. If any of the following conditions are present after a collision, the
magnesium support must be replaced:
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Steering column capsules have released or column has collapsed.
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The steel knee bolster brackets are bent.
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The parts which attach to the magnesium support do not fit.