Steering Column Repair: 1987 cadillac deville loose steering column, body bolts, tilt mechanism

Question
My steering column has a lot of movement up and down and side to side, it is a tilt and tele wheel.  Is there something I can do to tighten it up?  Or is this something best taken to a mechanic?  If I have to take to a mechanic what about homw much time should they charge?  thanks

Answer
Hello Danny,
You have the common problem with these tilt columns. The tilt mechanism assembly body bolts have loosened causing the wobble that you feel. If you think you can disassemble the column you could save yourself quite a bit of money. It will take a couple of special tools that can be found for under $50. It is very time consuming though, especially if you've never taken one apart. I estimate it to be a 2 hour job when done correctly. Labor rates vary from shop to shop and run from $75 to $150 per hour. Do some calling around and ask for quotes. Take note when the person you talk to knows about this common problem. Avoid those that have never dealt with this type of problem.
Hope that helps.
Have a great day!
-Jay