Genuine Audi 100 Steering Column

Audi 100 Steering Column Parts and Q&A

• Column
  4A1-419-505-L
  Q: What precautions should be taken before proceeding with the removal and reassembly of the steering column on Audi 100?

  A:

  Cautions must be observed before going ahead on models that have a driver side airbag. The steering lock housing retaining bolt in the lock housing is an unscrewable assembly that will need a special socket to open it because it is held together by a security Torx bolt that cannot be opened with a common Torx socket. In reassembling, a new universal joint clamp bolt and nut will be required. The first step is to disconnect the battery negative terminal, next unscrew the Steering Wheel and the combination switches off the top of the steering column. Unclip and lift off the folding gaiter (when fitted), and unscrew the retaining nuts, and release the switch wiring clamps on the column sides. Then lift out the instrument panel and a little way to gain ease of access, the storage compartment panel on the driver side of the facia. Disconnect the wiring connector with the Ignition Switch and release the wiring of the steering column. Before removing the clamp bolt to the steering column universal joint, fold back the trim cover, aligning the column universal joint with the steering gear pinion and the marks to the steering gear pinion. Loosen and twist the bolt that holds the steering lock/ ignition switch housing to steering column with special Torx socket and unscrew the nuts and washers to pull out the column mounting bolts. Unscrew the column mounting bracket, detach the lock housing, and loosen the lower end of the column in the pinion of the steering gear, by the help of which the column assembly may be turned upwards and out of the aperture of the facia. Pre-reassembly Checks The column and mountings must be inspected for damage and deformation, the steering shaft should be checked to see whether it has free play and the universal joint should be checked against wear. In case of any damage, the column will have to be replaced as an assembly, though the universal joint coupling can be replaced independently on 100 models. In case the coupling bushes are worn, mark alignment marks, loosen and take off retaining nuts and bolts and separate them. You remove the bushes and re-put the universal joint together and make sure to align. To refit, position the column assembly, lock the column universal joint with the steering gear pinion and reconnect the required cables. Install the steering lock housing assembly by attaching it to the column and fitting it into its mounting bracket, and place the steering lock mounting bolts and washers into place again. Install the steering lock housing retaining bolt and position the ignition switch in the center then tighten the mounting bolts. Install the new universal joint clamp bolt and install washer and retaining nut and tighten it to the required torque. Finally not least, reassemble the vehicle by making sure that all the wiring is properly laid and clamped, and that the steering wheel is reattached.