Problem Description:

While removing the intermediate shaft (the telescopic part connecting the column to the steering rack), the lower shaft of the steering column "slid" deep into the main housing and is now stuck in a collapsed position.

Current Symptoms:

• Limited Travel: The shaft moves freely about 3 cm (1.18 inches) in and out, but then hits a hard stop.
  
• Mechanical Obstruction: When pulled outward, it hits a solid internal limit with a dull, plastic-on-metal sound.
  
• Column Type: Manual adjustment (NOT electric/motorized reach adjustment).
  
• Initial State: The steering was electronically locked (ESCL active) when the battery was disconnected during removal.
  
  
  

  Request for Expert Advice:

  Is there a specific "release sequence" or a hidden access hole to reset the collapsible mechanism on this specific Jaguar/Land Rover part number (e.g., GX73-3C529-DE)? Does the internal plastic cartridge require replacement once collapsed, or is it resettable with enough force?
  

Because the shaft is stuck in the collapsed/retracted position, I cannot reconnect the intermediate telescopic shaft. The exposed portion of the column shaft is too short for the U-joint to reach it and be secured with the pinch bolt. Effectively, the shaft is "shortened" by several centimeters compared to its normal ope



rating length, making assembly impossible.