QuestionGreetings,
I have a loose steering (tilt) column in my 1987 Chevy K20. As I'm mechanically minded and do most of my own repairs, I thought I'd tackle this.
I currently have the steering wheel removed, turn signal and four way flasher actuator out.
As I view the column end I have (3) torx fasteners that I have loose and bearings around the center shaft. I pried gently and managed to have (2) pop out and gravity took over. I found, cleaned them and reinserted back where they belong.
I am now seeking the help of someone that is familiar with this repair.
Thank you in advance -
Scott
Answer
loose tilt
Hi Scott:
It sounds like the tilt knuckle is loose. This is very common on older GM & Jeep vehicles. In order to repair it, the column needs to be disassembled down to the lower shift bowl. That means everything has to come off...and then you can get to the bolts that hold the 'stand' to the column tube. There are 4 inverted torx bolts that come loose or come out completely and need to be reinserted and tightened.
We have just completed a new page on our website for this repair with video of how to disassemble, tighten and reassemble these columns.
Here is the URL:
http://www.stolenandrecovered.com/video
I'll also enclose an exploded diagram if you think it will help. You are after the bolts I pointed to with the red arrow.
Here’s what you need to do. You will need 3 special tools to complete this job; a steering wheel puller, a lock plate compressor and a pivot pin puller.
Disconnect and remove:
1. the steering wheel,(special puller needed),
2. the lock plate,(a special spring compressor tool needed)
3. the horn cancel cam,
4. the turn signal switch,
5. the lock cylinder,
6. the upper lock cover, (with the wiper switch and cruise arm still mounted inside)
7. the tilt housing spring (push and rotate the locking cap and release the spring gently),
8. the tilt housing pins on each side (the third special pivot pin puller needed),
9. the tilt housing with bearings and the ignition rack gear...
…and then you can get to the 4 bolts that hold the tilt mechanism to the tube. Before the upper shaft happens to fall off, take note of the notch on the tip so you can reinstall the shaft EXACTLY in the same position you took it off. Otherwise your steering wheel can end up upside down.
Once the bolts are tight, you now have the monumental task of putting it all back together and aligning the gears for the ignition along with the dimmer actuator and rod (all at the same time).
Good Luck
