Steering Column Repair: 1988 Buick Century, buick century, cam assembly


Question
This car only has 59,000 miles on it .
The steering wheel moves up and down about an 1". There is some side to side movement also. It does not appear to be the tilt steering as it is tight. I have partially diasembled the column and can not see the immediate problem. I have not removed the steering wheel. I have taken the shift lever off and can see the movement but can't tell whats up.I have loosened the column from its housing but that does not appear to have any effect on removing the part of the column I need to get at.
How does this column come apart,and is this something I can fix?  

Answer
You will need to remove the steering wheel and then the lock-plate. You will need a special tool to remove the clip for the lock-plate. Once those are removed you will need to remove the turn signal cam assembly and the multi-function switch. There are 3 or 4 bolts in perimeter to center. These bolts hold the bowl to the column shaft [pipe]. If they loosen it will cause an up and down movement.
I have seen these column shafts break at the intricate cutout for the mount.

I hope that helps you understand what it will require to fix the problem.

If I can be of further assistance, please let me know.
Feedback and comments are greatly appreciated.
Have a great day!
-Jay