Abstract: A polymeric steering column housing assembly is provided formed from a plurality of components interconnected together using conventional fastening methods for housing a tilting and/or telescoping steering column shaft assembly. In one form of the invention, the steering column housing assembly includes a lower housing member formed from at least two mating parts. Pivotally coupled to the lower housing assembly is an upper steering column assembly likewise formed from at least two mating parts interconnected together. The upper and lower housing members are in turn interconnected by a positioning locking system to control the tilt position of the upper housing member relative to the lower housing member.

Abstract: A polymeric steering column housing assembly is provided formed from a plurality of components interconnected together using conventional fastening methods for housing a tilting and/or telescoping steering column shaft assembly. In one form of the invention, the steering column housing assembly includes a lower housing member formed from at least two mating parts. Pivotally coupled to the lower housing assembly is an upper steering column assembly likewise formed from at least two mating parts interconnected together. The upper and lower housing members are in turn interconnected by a positioning locking system to control the tilt position of the upper housing member relative to the lower housing member.

Abstract: A telescoping steering column has a tube and a shaft. The shaft has a slide portion at one end and a midregion adjacent the slide portion. The slide portion and at least a portion of the midregion are received in sliding engagement in the tube. The tube has a crimp which is formed about a portion of the midregion and slidably engages the midregion. Rotational torque is transmitted between the shaft and the tube through the midregion and crimp. Further, the slide portion of the shaft abuts the crimp and is blocked from passing through the crimp. Finally, a slide lock is provided to fix the position of the shaft relative to the tube in a locked position and whereby the shaft slides relative to the tube in an unlocked position.