Steering Column Repair: Steering Column Repair, steering column repair, torx bolts

Question
QUESTION: I just broke my shift lever inside the steering column to the point it almost comes out of the housing.  Can I get and replace this part or do I need to buy the whole column?

Thank you,
Steve

ANSWER: Hi Steve:
Sorry about your shifter. Please tell me the year, make & model of your vehicle and I can help you specifically.
Doug

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

QUESTION: Sorry Doug,

1999 GMC Safari Van 4L 2wd tilt w/cruise

Thank you again,
Steve

ANSWER: Hi Steve:
Thanks
The shifter attaches to the side of the column inside the covers with 3- 30 torx bolts and a shift interlock cable.  You will need to remove the covers (and lock cylinder) to access the bolts.  We have recently posted instructional pages on our website to show how to remove some of what you need in the column.
Here is that link---scroll down to the multiswitch replacement section and click on the picture.  On that page, you can print those instructions and the printed pictures will be larger.
http://www.stolenandrecovered.com/howto/instruct.php#A1

But to answer your question directly, I would suggest you purchase a complete column (used) and replace just the shifter assembly.  Otherwise, you are opening yourself up to a lot of electrical and airbag problems you don't have now.  There is a lot more to replacing the column than replacing the shifter alone.
For used parts...Try this site.  You may be able to find what you need.

www.car-part.com
It's the website all the salvage yards use when they say "Hang on--let me see if my other yard has it".  Actually it's an online database of all the salvage yards in America.  You can search by part, location or price.  Run the sort by location to you and don't be afraid to call the yards that don't list prices tomorrow.

I hope this all helps
Doug
www.stolenandrecovered.com

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

QUESTION: I was wondering would it not be easier to replace the entire column instead of relacing peices inside of it?  I can pick up a complete column (used) for @ $100.00 and it should replace what I currently have ... right?

Thanks,
Steve

Answer
Steve:
As I said, in order to replace the column you will need to remove the covers, the lock cylinder and much, much more putting yourself at risk for problems you currently do not have, but will most likely end up with (airbag light on, turn signal not working, wipers not working properly, noises in the column when turning, etc.).  I've seen this too many times as you never know how good the $100 column or switches are.

Once you remove the lock cylinder and the covers on this column (whic you have to do to replace the whole column anyhow), there are only 3 screws and a couple of pop-off cables to replace the shifter assembly....
It's up to you, but that's what I would do.

Doug