The highbeam action on my column isn't working anymore, so I popped off the side cover and little plastic piece fell out on the floor, but I can't see how I would glue it back to the plastic piece still on the end of the metal rod from the switch. I'm operating the highbeams now by pulling the bottom column cover and moving the rod with my hand, kind of embarrasing:-)

 

Been there :lol: The little plastic piece doesn't get glued in, it just balances dangerously (assuming we are talking about the same piece).
It sounds like either your switch was just a little too far or your wiper switch pivot was just a little too loose. My situation was exactly the same... right down to removing the cover and pushing the actuator rod to use brights. And of course cursing GM for making my car out of bent coat hangers!
I spent many many hours trying to get that part back in without tearing the column apart from the top, and couldn't figure it out. Once I took everything apart from the wheel down it made sense. I think it was Jim Shea who pointed me in the right direction, he is very smart and helpful and hopefully he will post here.
Reaching back into my hazy memory...
I pulled the hub, removed the ignition cylinder, and unbolted the signal and wiper switches. The switches didn't come out, just needed lots of wiggle room. Any removeable trim came off, and the collar was loosened (the reason I removed the ignition cyl). I am not sure if I put the part back in from above or below. I do remember wishing I had three hands, and that the orientation of the part could only be seen from above. And can't forget to disconnect the battery.
I hope you could follow this :lol:
Jim

 

Please go to http://www.corvettefaq.com and look under Suspension and Steering. You will find a paper on Tilt and Telescoping Column Disassembly Instructions as well as three pics and a Steering Column Blowup. There are also papers on the standard (non adjustable) column as well. I think you are going to have to go into the column from the steering wheel side, however.

 

I too had the same problem. (Must be a '77 thing.) I ended up replacing the whole WW switch. This involved tearing all the way down. The best thing to do is use Jim Shea's instructions. That will have everything you need...

Good luck. :cheers:

Tim M.

 

Wow, Jim Shea you are awesome. My haynes manual left me stranded as to how to get the lock plate off as on standard columns in other cars I have used the steering wheel puller to get push on the lockplate and remove the plastic clip thing, but on a T/T column the center bolt just rides out. I guess I'll just have to get 2 other people to help me and push in on it since there is no easier way. I also appreciate the guide as to where to get a new WW/HD switch as I couldn't find one in the Zip catalog.