1970 lower steering column shaft removal help
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 289
Likes: 37
From: Boulder, CO
1970 lower steering column shaft removal help
I could use some help. I’m doing a borgenson steering upgrade and need to collapse the column (tilt/Tele) about 3.5 inches, but like most other things on this car, it was rusted in place. I removed the column for easier access and did pb blaster twice daily for a week, then started tapping with a rubber mallet. After a few solid hits the bearing assembly separated from the inner race and ejected the *****. Based on what I have read, I thought the lower shaft would easily slide out now that the bearing is separated. I tried pulling the shaft out, but it is clearly still stuck to the shift tube assembly. I have a new bearing and plan to cut the inner race off per instructions in other threads, but would like to pull the shaft out first and ensure it’s free moving to accommodate the shorter shaft position I need.
What is holding it in place? Is it time for further disassembly? A new column?
Thanks
What is holding it in place? Is it time for further disassembly? A new column?
Thanks
Race Director
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 19,294
Likes: 2,754
From: Charlotte NC
In order for you top remove the shaft.
The steering column MUST be disassembled from the other end.
It WILL require some very specific tool to do this...such as.
1.) Steering wheel hub puller.
2.) Lock plate suppressor.
3.) Pivot pin puller
4.) Misc sockets ,screwdriver. and needle nose pliers and a magnet.
Then chances are you will need a plastic insulator to be replaced due to the one in this steering column will more than likely shatter when you go to take it off. They can be purchased and are inexpensive.
DUB
The steering column MUST be disassembled from the other end.
It WILL require some very specific tool to do this...such as.
1.) Steering wheel hub puller.
2.) Lock plate suppressor.
3.) Pivot pin puller
4.) Misc sockets ,screwdriver. and needle nose pliers and a magnet.
Then chances are you will need a plastic insulator to be replaced due to the one in this steering column will more than likely shatter when you go to take it off. They can be purchased and are inexpensive.
DUB
Race Director
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 19,294
Likes: 2,754
From: Charlotte NC
It is under tension and will not just easily slide up. No way in telling if there is crud stopping or causing a bind where the two shafts slide into each other.
By you beating the heck out of it...you are NOW putting pressure on your plastic nylon knuckle that is at the 'tilt' portion of the shaft. You are also ramming the bearing race into the ball bearings in your housing of the column. Granted ..I know this area would be already under tension so the ball bearing are seating in the races. But just letting you know what is going on here.
I know it can be done and has been done and I have done it...but that does not necessarily mean that it will work in every scenario. I have run into some that were REALLY stubborn.
DUB
By you beating the heck out of it...you are NOW putting pressure on your plastic nylon knuckle that is at the 'tilt' portion of the shaft. You are also ramming the bearing race into the ball bearings in your housing of the column. Granted ..I know this area would be already under tension so the ball bearing are seating in the races. But just letting you know what is going on here.
I know it can be done and has been done and I have done it...but that does not necessarily mean that it will work in every scenario. I have run into some that were REALLY stubborn.
DUB
Race Director
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 19,294
Likes: 2,754
From: Charlotte NC
If you cannot find what you need. I can do these in my sleep due to doing so many....so if you want or need help...just ask. I as joking about the 'sleep' part...but you get the point.
But do keep in mind that there are some special tools that will make the job go a lot easier that I have mentioned.
DUB
But do keep in mind that there are some special tools that will make the job go a lot easier that I have mentioned.
DUB
