Steering Column Repair: steering column repair, steering column repair, chevy custom

Question
I have a 1978 Chevy Custom Deluxe pickup with a non tilt column. I replaced the ignition switch and turn signal assembly. My question is: How do I get the tab that meshes with the gear on the back of the ignition switch to go into the slot where it will mate with the gear while I'm sliding the column housing back on? The tab is attached to a rod that runs down the column under the dash. When I try to slide the housing back on , the tab pivots to the side so it misses the slot and I have to take the column off and reposition the tab and try again. Very frustrating.                     Thanks for any help you can offer.

Answer
Hi Scott:
There are 2 methods of accomplishing the job you are talking about.

1) Remove the ignition switch on the column tube under the dash.  Once that is off, you will have the rod in hand with the housing and can assemble the entire piece with the rod sticking out and lock cylinder installed correctly prior to installing it.  That's the easy way

2) The small black gear in the housing actually pops off if you can get the right angle on it.  Then you can install the housing without worrying about the gear (yet).  You will still need to juggle the locking pin and actuator rod as you install the housing cover.  once it's on and you are happy with that part, pull the actuator rod and ignition switch to the ACC position.  Then put the black gear on the lock cylinder and rotate that to the ACC position in your hand.  Now you can insert the lock into the housing with the black gear and (hopefully) it will align.  Once in place, carefully remove the lock so you can snap the gear back in place.  You will do this a few times before you get it to snap and hold.

I always do method 1 because it's faster in the long run and I know everything is in place and adjusted correctly when I'm done.

Good luck
Doug