Is a tilt/tele column from a '75 Vette compatible with a '69?

 

yes.

 

Thanks. I'm looking at one.

 

It is but you have to get all the mounting brackets.
If memory serves me correctly, there are two or three full brackets that mount from the birdcage/firewall to the column.
The 68/69 column is much smaller in diameter and the 68/69 brackets are MUCH heavier.

 

68 NJConv 454,
You are not correct.
The 1967 and 1968 Corvette columns are the first generation energy absorbing columns. The are each unique for their particular years and do not interchange. But they both have small diameter jackets with large mounting brackets as you describe.

The 1969 though 1976 Corvette columns are the 2nd generation energy absorbing columns with steering wheel and shift locking capabilities. They have mast jackets that are larger and the same diameter as all other GM passenger car steering columns and have small mounting brackets.

There are very minor differences in some of the columns from 69 to 76. They will interchange within those years.

So if your 69 already has a steering column with its correct mounting brackets, the 1975 column will bolt right in. If you are swapping from a standard (non-adjustable) column to a T&T, you will need the
steering wheel hub, extension, and various horn and telescope locking hardware.
Jim

 

I guess my definition of "compatible" includes some fabrication.
I swapped in a 75 tilt/tel column into my 68 using the 75 column brackets and "collapsed" the telescoping shaft to fit the new length. I know you won't approve of the "collapsing" but I still have plenty to go in the event I need it.
Good to know there is a difference between the 68/69 columns as I thought the change went into effect in 70.

 

So you have two ignition lock cylinders in your 1968. One in the column head the other in the instrument panel.

Jim

 

Yes. I kept the dash ignition and utilize the steering column ignition cylinder for the steering locking mechanism. I like the added security.

 

Jim, can you comment on the standard to t/t swap? Will I need special tools, does the entire column need to be replaced or partial?

thanks,

B

 

bkk2,

Just in case Jim doesnt sign on in a while, I replaced my 72 stock NON T/T column with a T/T unit that was a direct replacement. But as Jim mentioned above, the "top" components are slightly different, ie hub, horn button, etc.

 

makoshark, good to know this is possible. From the driver's perspective and compared to the std column, did the t/t sit closer to the driver?
number of hours required? is it a two person job or one person is sufficient?
thanks.
B

 

bhk2,

More room with the T/T, as that is the "telescopic" part of T/T! You can adjust closer or, for us "belly challenged" folks, further away..ie more breathing room!

If you have never done it before, like most jobs, it will take a while, but I think a couple of hours max. I could do mine probably in a hour or so now.

One person job, you must

1. Disconnect the rag joint in the engine bay (buy a new GM (NOT cheap knock-off) one and replace if it hasnt been done). Get the rag joint from the local Chevy dealer. I got one from my friends at Wilcox, and it was a knock off, I didnt use it.

2. Remove the black plastic bezel/seal where the column goes thru the firewall (2 bolts as I recall). This is in the cockpit.

3. Disconnect the auto trans cable bracket on the engine side of the column

4. There are 2 large bolts under the column in the cockpit that holds the steering column bracket. Support the column as you do this, as you will have to unplug the ignition switch harness on the top side of the column

5. Carefully retract the entire column from the cockpit side, navigating around the pedals.

Sorry for the "vague" explanation, but I did it a couple of yrs ago and may have left out thing or two. Its pretty obvious when you get in there and take a look. There is a trim piece under the column that has to come off (2 screws?) and your headlight/wiper vacuum switch assembly is also there and will come off.

I'm writing this from memory, so...others will probably jump in with better instructions!

If I can do it......

 

Perfect! thanks for the help and guidance.

B

 

The only time during this whole swap that you definately need another person is when you are installing the new column down through the dash panel and are trying to line up with the bolts sticking out of the flexible coupling.

One other trick between the two types of columns. When you go from the standard column to a tilt and telescoping column you will find that the the plastic connectors from the vehicle wiring harness will not snap directly into the igniton switch on your new column.

You will find that the wiring harness from your Vette has two plastic connectors. You will need to twist them 180 degrees so that they will snap into the ignition switch on your T&T column.

Jim