Has anyone ever dissassembled a steering columnn from an '87-'91 model? I've broken a J/L shaped peice of aluminum that the starter switch rod connects to. I have the correct replacement part and have removed the wheel,MF switch,ignition tumbler housing and the rod and broken peices. Now with the new part, since it's not in two peices, I'm going to have to remove secondary housing(where the tilt u-joint is) in order to get the new part back in. Anyone done this? If so what do I need to watch out for, and what all will need to be removed to get the secondary housing off?

Thanks, ANG

 

I just had the joy of replacing that part about a month ago. You definitely do need to remove the tilt housing, its not that bad, but it is a PITA. First off, remove your shift selector cable, or you will break it....don't ask how I know. Then its as simple as removing the three screws that hold the housing in place. This is the semi tough part, they are on the back side of the housing, so you have to contort yourself to get to them. They use a hex key, don't remember what size. Oh yeah, make sure you remove the turn signal stick and take the screws out of the wiring harness plate on the housing. Once you get everything loose, you can just twist the wiring and slide it through the housing.

 

there is no need to remove the 3 screws from the back side.
on each side of the tint are the tilt pins. screw a little screw into the tilt pins, and pull then out. i think the screw size is 10-32. just remember how it comes apart. the spring is a bit of a pain to put back in on reassembly, but overall it ain't that bad. just sometimes there is a need for 5 hands to line everything up.

 

Here's a link that might help you,

http://chrisb.users.superford.org/Br...ng_Column.html