Steering Column Repair: 1977 gmc cylinder lock drive gear actuator, needle nose pliers, steering column repair

Question
QUESTION: Is there a replacement for the phenolic drive gear actuator that fits on the end of the ignition cylinder lock for this 1977 3/4 ton p/u? If so where?  The steering column is rigid.  If not can I adapt a push-button start system on this vehicle? Any and all suggestions are welcomed and will be appreciated.  Thank you.


gm non tilt ignition g   ANSWER: Hi Glenn:

Normally the gear is only sold with the purchase of the entire upper lock housing.  Our company however has these gears individually.
You can purchase it directly online at this web address:
http://stolenandrecovered.com/parts2/rack1.php

I hope this helps you

Good luck
Doug


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: My Haynes manual is not that clear on re-assembly.  Is there a "proper" way to assemble the gear in relation to the ignition lock setting?  Thanks in advance.

Answer
Hi Glenn:

The best way I have found to reset the timing on the gears is to pull the rod and rack inside the cover so the vehicle is in the ACC position.  Then I put the gear on the lock cylinder, turn the lock cylinder in-hand to the ACC position (not the lock position) and slide it all together making sure the lock does not slip positions.
If that turns out to be too hard, then you can slide the gear in place with long needle nose pliers in any position that makes you happy.  The lock will only go in one way, but the teeth on the 2 gears will fit each other about 5 different ways.

It's not too bad a job

Doug