highlander751

I have a question for the group, it is in regards to the steering column lower trim piece and how it attaches on my ‘74. There are three screw holes in the trim piece, two toward the front of the trim piece that connect to the instrument cluster/dash and one that attaches to the steering column. My issue is with the screw that is supposed to attach the trim to the steering column. There is only a slot in the column where the screw would go that is about a ¼” wide and an 1 ½” long. I am thinking a plastic nut of some type should be in the slot. If someone could shed some light on how the trim piece attaches to the steering column and where I can get the parts it would be much appreciated.
Regards,
Robert

GUSTO14

There is a plastic insert nut, 'similar' in appearance to these, that is inserted first for the screw to go into.


Most auto parts stores will have small packages of them, some in various sizes. Even a small plastic drywall insert can be made to work. File flats on opposite sides, cut it to length and insert it into the slot.

Good luck... GUSTO

bj1k

I don't know about the 74 , but I seem to remember there being a metal clip on my 72 steering column that the screw goes into. Be careful that you don't use a screw that is too long because your wiring harness for the steering column runs above that screw and the screw tip will puncture the wires and cause a short. The original screw is very short.

Alan 71

Hi Robert,
Everyone's dancing around what was used in 74….
This is the retainer for one screw that's slides in the slot in the column of my 71.
Regards,
Alan

lvmyvt76

Peterbuilt

Are you missing 9A ?


Installed on my 74:

highlander751

yes, I am missing part 9A. Any idea where to get this part? Thanks for all the replies, they are much appreciated!
-Robert

Peterbuilt

Something like what GUSTO14 pictured or maybe a couple of 'J nuts' might work.
Check at your favorite auto parts store.

bj1k

So there is no clip, just screwed into the hole in the strap. Mine must have been stripped because there was a screw clip on mine. I guess if it is stripped you just use a clip. Just keep in mind short screw to avoid wires.