Steering Column Repair: Steering column replacement, ford clubwagon, shift indicator


Question
I have an 89 ford clubwagon, full size van.  I need to know how to replace the entire steering column.  From the lower steering column shaft up.  I purchased a steering column from a junk yard that I will be putting in. It's from an 86 clubwagon, Will this work as I was told? I have found some diagrams online but I would like to know what I am doing before I go tearing things apart.

Answer
Hi Nathan:
To replace the steering column, you first need to make sure it is the correct one.  If it came with turn signals & a key and steering wheel, make sure they are all the same looking and the key feels like it works before you start this project.  Turn the wheel & make sure it rotates smoothly .  If any of it looks wrong, or feels loose or grinds, do not use it.
If it all feels good, then replacing it is not too bad.  You will need to remove the bolts holding the lower shaft and the shifter to the column.  Then remove the bolts attaching the column to the floor.  Working your way up, disconnect all the wires you see attaching the column to the van (including the shift indicator).  Lastly, remove the 2 bolts holding the column to the lower dash.  Once these are all out, you can pull the column out of the floor and lower shaft.  It may be rusty and need some lubricant and coaxing, but do not damage the connection as you need to put the replacement right back in it.