Steering Column Replacement - '73 GT

[ol55]

Going to replace the steering column because the key cylinder is worn out and there is no power coming from the column (PO).

Questions:
1. Any tips for doing this job? I have a manual. Any estimate on time ( I'll double it)?

2.Is the lower plastic piece easy to change? It is broken on the new/used part.


3. What black paint would you use on the upper part?

4.The manual lists having adjustment shims for the bottom of the column. Are these necessary and are they available?



Thanks,
Larry

[ol55]

I painted the top of the column and it turned out "ok"

Would like to know how the plastic piece is held on - screws, clips or ???

Bueller, Anyone??

Larry

[Smiley]

If you are not getting power through the column, check and or replace the ignition switch (bolted on the lower part of the tube)
Does your steering shaft have a rag joint or have a spline at the firewall ?
On my 73 GT with manual steering it has no rag joint, the collapsible inner shaft goes from the steering wheel to the gearbox coupling.
The lower plastic bushing just slips in to the outer tube, with a square "clamp" on the inner shaft to keeping it in place.
The upper plastic shroud is screwed from the bottom to the metal ignition/turn signal "bucket" with Philips head screws.

[ol55]

Smiley,

Thanks for the info! Looking forward to cheking it as soon as the snow goes away.

Larry

[ol55]

my manual steering car has the clamp at the bottom


Can I leave the clamp and the lower dash brackets on and just separate the steel steering column (jacket) from the plastic bushing and slip the new used column over the old bushing?

The previous owner bought the column because the key assembly is shot in addition to the possible open circuit in the ignition switch.

The plastic shroud was just the three screws- thanks

[Smiley]

The lock cylinder and ignition switch can be replaced without removing the column.
The clamp had to come off to remove the column on mine.
The best paint in a spray can I have used is Rustoleum Premium in the taller silver cans (flat or semi gloss black)

[ol55]

Is this clip on the steering shaft preventing the column removal?



If so, what is the best way to remove it?


Thanks,
Larry

[Smiley]

In a pinch you can pry the ring off with a pick or small screw driver, be carefull there is a spring behind the lock plate. Putting it back together is easier with the right tool.
You can get a "steering lock tool" at the auto parts store or search E-bay:

[ol55]

Thanks again Smiley!

I removed the column using the s-l tool.

I removed the three screws from both columns but can not get the sleeve to come off. Do I need to remove anything else?

Thanks,
Larry

[ol55]

This piece of plastic, part of the sleeve needed to be pried over the steering mast.

downhill now?

[ol55]

Does this clip on the bottom of the column next to the firewall?







or does it clip higher up above the dash bracket?




Thanks,
Larry

[Smiley]

Mine has a triangular metal piece that slips over the lower part of the tube and is secured to the firewall with 3 screws.
that looks like a trim collar to hold the carpet down but looks to go over the column like you have it.

[RamIt]

So that thing just holds the firewall insulation in place?

[ol55]

I assume this is the horn contact ring. Where can I find one that is not broken?



Thanks,
Larry

[Smiley]

Try your local autoparts store ask for 73 Camaro non tilt - signal cancel cam

OR http://www.rickscamaros.com/camaro-horn-contact-and-turn-signal-canceling-cam-for-cars-with-non-tilt-steering-column-1969-1975.html