Need help! (steering column)

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Apr 21, 2003 | 05:56 PM

Kara

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From: Tx

Need help! (steering column)

My steering column on my 80 vette feels like it could fall off at anytime. It wiggles around BAD! I don't care about telescopic steering wheel, so where and what is the best place to get one. One that's not bad on price. i will have to get one before I drive my car again. Thanks.

Apr 21, 2003 | 06:00 PM

72GACRZR

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From: Marietta Ga.

Re: Need help! (Kara)

Have you checked the condition of you rag joint? :seeya

Check this thread for more information http://forums.corvetteforum.com/zerothread?id=330311

[Modified by 72GACRZR, 6:03 PM 4/21/2003]

Apr 21, 2003 | 06:06 PM

Kara

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From: Tx

Re: Need help! (Kara)

No I haven't. the steering column looks awful though. Don't laugh when I ask but how do I check it. I have never messed with a steering column.

Apr 21, 2003 | 06:12 PM

bbeck

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From: Ashley Michigan

Re: Need help! (Kara)

I believe that I had the same problem you described in a couple other vehicles, that I've fixed. I just pulled the steering wheel, then there's three bolts that'll tighten up and should get rid of your slack. I don't know how it works with the telescopic wheel, I've never had mine apart. -not sure how easy it is to take the wheel off. You'll have to borrow a steering wheel puller, good luck.

Apr 21, 2003 | 06:17 PM

Kara

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From: Tx

Re: Need help! (Kara)

It literally feels like the steering column is going to fall off.

Apr 21, 2003 | 06:22 PM

bbeck

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From: Ashley Michigan

Re: Need help! (Kara)

yep, had that problem on my chevy van I was driving

Apr 21, 2003 | 06:26 PM

Wrencher

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From: NorCal

Re: Need help! (Kara)

This is a common GM problem. the tilt assembly is held in by three small bolt/nut assemblies that come loose, causing the 'floppy' column you are experiencing. Unless you have the tools, it's best left to a shop, although it doesn't need to be a dealer. Most independent shops will be familiar with the problem, and it doesn't require parts if everything else is still working. It takes about 1-2 hours to repair in my shop.

By all means get it fixed soon - if one or more of the bolts come loose, it can kill the engine (turns off the ignition) and/or lock the steering. I've had to go get them in the middle of intersections before!

Good luck.

Hans

Apr 21, 2003 | 06:27 PM

72GACRZR

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From: Marietta Ga.

Re: Need help! (Kara)

http://www.corvettefaq.com/steering.asp

If you go to the above , there are several articles on the tilt tele wheel by Jim Shea, who use to build them. Look at the diagrams, etc and you will see where the various parts are.

If you are saying the steering wheel is falling off the car, check the bolts that hold it to the bottom of the dash, if the car wanders, check the rag joint in the engine cmpartment at the end of the shaft( it's the thing that looks like an old piece of tire between two big square washers.

If you get lucky, Jim will chime in and then your solution will be found.