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Hi guys. I just bought a used steering column for eventual replacement. It is supposed to be from a 69-75 which from what I gather are all interchangeable. I bought it knowing it would need some work. As I began researching parts, I’m finding that some parts are listed to fit 69-72 or 69-75, 70-71, etc. Is there any way to determine the exact year of a column? Or will any of the parts for these years fit? I’m in no hurry but I’d like to start buying replacement parts but I don’t want to get incorrect parts. As always, thanks for all the help! Corvette Forum folks have been a real help the last three years I’ve owned the car.
UPDATE: After researching further, it appears this is a 71-76 column due to the oval embossed lock lettering under the ignition switch. Most of the 69-70 models had a square surrounding the lettering. If anyone has any other pertinent information or advice I’d appreciate it. Oval Lock Embossing
Last edited by Jeff2761; Jan 11, 2025 at 12:23 PM.
Reason: Additional Information Found
What's the key code for the ignition key? The codes varied by year, and even though they usually repeated in other years, the key code should help you narrow down what year the column is. 1969 and 73 used an "E" code key for the ignition, 70 and 74 use a "J" code key, 71 and 75 use an "A" and 72 used a "C".
For all the internal parts a late 69 with the flat machined on the end of the shaft, to 75 columns are all the same. The only things that were different in these years were the tilt/turn signal and hazard levers/*****. All other internal parts that I can think of are the same, including the upper horn and telescoping parts. It does appear in your last picture, that the steering shaft has been collapsed. That is something you can address once you get it apart. I would totally disassemble before ordering parts. Most likely the lower horn contact retainer will crumble when you pull it off, they always do if the column has never been apart. Take some pics when you get it apart and we can steer you in the right direction. Gonna need a couple easily accessible, but special tools to get it torn all the way down.
By the way, 76 columns up to the point of your main picture are the same as 69-75, but above that, including the upper cover, hub, steering wheel and horn contact retainer and button are different and one year only.
Bill
Last edited by 69ttop502; Jan 11, 2025 at 02:16 PM.
If you take it apart far enough to remove the steering shaft, it is very easy to pound it back out from the splined end side. Otherwise you could put vice grips on it the way it is and pound it out but it doesnt look like there is any non splined area sticking out so certainly don't want to harm the splines. All the parts you need are readily available but I would definitely wait until you get it apart to order anything.
I bought it knowing I’d probably have to rebuild it. Just wasn’t sure what a collapsed shaft was and concerned it meant the column was ruined. As long as it’s able to be refurbished and will fit my 69, I’m good!
It will work fine in your 69. The tilt/tele column I have in my 69 is from a 72. I fully rebuilt it as well and works great. The steering shaft should measure 31 inches from splined end to the middle of the tilt ball opening on the other end. The shift tube should measure 24 1/4 inches. Need to make sure it isn't collapsed too as mine was. These papers and diagrams are invaluable in rebuilding these columns. Jim Shae is a member here and worked at Saginaw in designing these columns back in the day.
Tilt/tele column question
