Any problems with putting in a late 70s tilt column in a 72. I know the stalks for the turn signals is different and it probably has cruise and the high beams are on the stalk but I just won't use that part. Is the wiring for the turn signals and horn and stuff the same. Will the ignition switch work or do I use my ignition switch from the 72. I'm sure others have done this. Any problems you have run into?

 

A later year C3 T&T steering column will fit in your 1972 Vette with some work. The Corvette instrument cluster changed in 1978. So 1978 and later steering columns had a longer plastic shroud that reached from the head of the steering column back down to the cluster. You will need to cut the shroud back. (Be careful with your cutting because if you cut too much you will have a gap between your steering column shroud and the dash.)

The good news is that the turn signal and ignition switches will work. Here are three things to look out for:
1. If you are converting from a standard (non-adjustable) column to a T&T you will find that you will have to take the instrument panel wiring harnesses (two connectors) and twist them 180 degrees in order to get them to snap into the ignition switch. (No big deal.) If you are swapping one T&T column for the later one; the vehicle harness connectors should snap right in.
2. Sometimes you will find that the turn signal switch "harmonica" connector on the new column will not snap into the connector on the vehicle harness (even though they look very much the same.) You will need to remove the wires from the original harmonica connector and swap connectors.
3. The later year steering columns have a small lever right behind the ignition lock cylinder. You will need to depress the lever in order to be able to rotate your ignition key to the OFF-LOCK position. This little lever replaces the steering column/transmission interlock cable.

I suggest you take a look at this paper.

http://jimshea.corvettefaq.com/wp-co...3rev06au07.doc

You will note that it starts with a disclaimer. I originally thought that the 1977 column would just bolt right into an early C3. But a few people that have made the installation report that the 1977 column doesn't quite fit the dash. One person indicated that he made spacers and added them to the locations that the two vertical bolts attach the column up into the dash. (This will bring the steering column and the strg wheel right down into your lap.) Of course this is a TILT & telescoping column so you can tilt it up but you may or may not like this approach.

Let us know how things turn out.
Jim

 

Thanks Jim. I was hoping you would see this post and comment on this. All good info. I am converting a non TT to a TT. The wheel sits to low now. I have put in C5 seats and with the side bolster sticking out it is tough even for me, a smaller guy to get into the car. Once in the seats are a little higher and the wheel sits low. I was hoping this column would help out. The early 69-75 columns are rediculous in pricing. I'll read the paper and save it to a file for later. Thanks