Question-------------------------
Followup To
Question -
The car is a 1989 BUICK RIVIERA. IT has up and down tilt. While using the lock plate compressor I heard a snap sound. I continued to put the lock pin on the spline and replacing the steering wheel but not enough thread on the spline cleared the steering wheel to allow the nut to catch thread. The gear shift will not lock. Proper tools were used (puller and compressor) - no hammer was used. I had replaced the ignition because the key would no longer work - it would not turn off or start the car. Thank you for your help.
Can't get steering column back on. Spline does not come out far enough. Lock plate does not go back far enough. What is wrong?
Answer -
Sounds like a collasped steering column. If this is a non-tilt GM, the column is junk.
These columns are designed to collapse in a head on accident. The two shafts have a plastic injected piece that holds them together. Once an impact is seen, like removing the steering wheel with a hammer instead of a puller, the shaft collapses.
I need to know the type of column and vehicle to be more specific.
AnswerThis information makes me believe that the lock plate is not on properly or the upper bearing or retainer is not seated.
You need to pull the lock plate off. Remove the spring and cancel cam. Remove the bearing race retainer and pull on upper shaft making sure the race is seated. It may be set an an angle. When pulling up on shaft, take a screwdriver and push on each side of the lip on the bearing retainer. Reinstall retainer and spring and cancel cam. Make sure broach on shaft (missing tooth) lines up with broach on lockplate. Compress and install snap ring.
You need to realize that trying to help you without seeing the problem is very difficult.
What concerns me is the fact that the shifter does not lock.
That should have nothing to do with your current situation.
