steering column - new cylinder install

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Jun 22, 2007 | 02:13 PM

Belgian1979vette

Thread Starter

Melting Slicks

Joined: Mar 2002

Posts: 2,164

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From: Beringen

steering column - new cylinder install

Can anyone explain me how to replace the lock cylinder on a 79 steering column (t&t). I'm as far as having the steering wheel etc out. I can now see the turn signal cam (which looks fragile btw).

Thanks

Jun 22, 2007 | 08:54 PM

chris75stingray

Burning Brakes

Joined: Feb 2005

Posts: 1,235

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From: Mesa AZ

there should be 4 screws on the turn signal mechanism. then you need the key in the on position and there should be a small tab you push in than the cylinder will pull out

Jun 23, 2007 | 08:58 AM

Jim Shea

Le Mans Master

Joined: Jul 2000

Posts: 6,001

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From: Saginaw Michigan

Here are complete instructions on replacing your ignition lock cylinder on your T&T column.
http://jimshea.corvettefaq.com/wp-co...dr1-16mr07.doc

http://jimshea.corvettefaq.com/wp-co...ge1-12FE06.doc

Be aware of two things:
There is a plastic retainer that becomes brittle and crumbles with age. You will most likely need a replacement part.
The GM part number is 7808385. Zip Store part number SC-517.

Also there was a lock cylinder change that occurred in 1979. Early steering columns had a lock cylinder that was retained in the column housing by a spring loaded metal wedge. Later in 1979 the method of retaining the lock cylinder was changed to a cross bolt that passed through a notch in the lock cylinder.

The Zip Store lists two lock cylinders:
1969-1977 Ignition Lock Cylinder LK-315
1978-1985 Ignition Lock Cylinder LK-314

Note that Zip indicates that the change occurred in 1978. My information says that it occurred in 1979. I think that I am correct. You could help al lot if you would indicate if your lock cylinder had a locking wedge or the cross notch.
Good luck,
This is a fairly easy repair.
Jim

Last edited by Jim Shea; Jun 23, 2007 at 09:23 AM.

Jun 25, 2007 | 08:00 PM

ruby76

Drifting

Joined: Sep 2004

Posts: 1,532

Likes: 4

From: Fairview Heights Illinois, near Saint Louis MO, STL C3 Shark

I assume this procedure is more or less the same without the tilt/telescope wheel? Mine is fixed position, but need to replace it as well.