Steering Column Repair: 92 Grand Am Steering Tilt, turn signal switch, steering column repair

Question
QUESTION: Hi Doug!

I have a 92 Grand Am and the steering tilt won't lock into place.  The steering column just pivots up and down.  The latch on the left side of the column feels like it still has spring to it, but it just wont lock into place.  Can I fix this?


Grand am column   ANSWER: Hi Ken:

Sorry about your car.  This is actually a very easy repair and fairly common on this design.  The pin that secures the tilt slides out of place so there is nothing for the tilt levers to grab.  Remove both covers and then remove the turn signal switch.  You will see a shiny silver pin extended out to the left of the housing.  While pulling the tilt lever, gently tap the pin back into the housing.  It should slide back fairly easily, but you will need to use a small tap hammer.  I have attached a picture of where the pin will be.

When you reassemble the turn signal switch, BE CAREFUL of the spring loaded horn contact.  That small contact needs to be depressed when you reinstall the switch so it fits behind the rolling com on the steering shaft.

I hope this helps.

Good luck

Doug

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks Doug for the reply, but I still have two questions ...

1) how does the two-piece plastic cover come off the steering column?  There were three screws holding the cover on the bottom of the column, but removing them just loosend the cover not separating them.  I have tried prying them apart but they are obviously latched together somehow.

2) how does the turn signal come off?  Can I just grab it with locking pliers and unscrew it?

Thanks again Doug!

Answer
Oh my goodness Ken.  
No locking pliers PLEASE!!

To remove the covers there are 2 more screws that go in from the front, behind the steering wheel, rather than the bottom or top.They are only visible when you turn the steering wheel to the 3:00 and the 9:00 position.
Regarding the turns signal switch, it may be best if you leave it in place (if you can).  Otherwise, when the covers are off, you will see 2-3 more screws that release the switch from the column housing.

Please don't force anything , It all does come apart and assemble quite easily.

Good luck
Doug