How do I disassemble the steering column

[bilgamesh]

I am having a devil of a time figuring out how to remove the housing around the steering column so that I can replace the ignition switch. Can anyone give me some help? I have removed the steering wheel, the key cylinder, turn signal arm, tilt mechanism and loosened the turn signal switch.

 

Thanks,

Bill

[aemsee]

The ign switch is waaaay down on the column under the dash. No where near the cylinder. Is that what you are replacing?

[Wildman]

Here's a link to the down load pages..........

 

http://www.lunghd.com/Downloads_and_Links/Downloads.htm

 

And it's a pdf file, the 14th one down from the top, under Electrical - Ignition Switch & Lock Cylinder servicing -

 

'Save' it to your desk top, and then open it from there........if you have pdf.

 

It's like 12 pages long, it will give you a step by step to crack the steering column open and replace the ignition switch. But take note.......you should use a lock plate compressor to get to the switch.

[aemsee]

Let's be sure what it is you need to replace. If it is the switch the column does not need to be disassembled. If it is the cylinder, it does.

[BLHTAZ]

:agree: If you are after the ingnition switch, there is no reason to take the column apart. The switch is simply bolted to the lower column under the dash.

[Wildman]

Let's be sure what it is you need to replace. If it is the switch the column does not need to be disassembled. If it is the cylinder, it does.

 

 

Yes, I agree.........I read his question as try to get the column apart. The link I posted also shows the details on the ignition switch on the lower section of the column. :yes:

[bilgamesh]

Thanks for all the replies. I deciphered what I could find of the documentation and other forums to learn the ignition switch was far down the column, but since I did need to replace the cylinder anyway, most of what I did was necessary. Unfortunately once I began reassembling, I found that I could not get the little spring clip back in place under the cylinder with any confidence it was in correctly. I also notice my locking steering wheel pin seems not to be springing back into place, so I probably lost a spring in there somewhere. I will read the documentation recommended and start again tomorrow.

 

Thanks Again,

Bill

[aemsee]

If it turns out you need to disassemble, consider pulling the whole column assy and clamping it in a vise on a bench. It is a WHOLE lot easier that way. Too bad you weren't local, I'ld do the rebuild for ya.

[bilgamesh]

I had to put it all back together right away so that I could move it before some guests arrived. I now have two new problems. The horn does not work, and the wheel lock rod is no longer engaging the plate. I think somehow in my messing with it, I stressed the spring too much and it does not force the rod forward any more. I would appreciate any thoughts.

 

Thanks,

Bill