I'm planning on removing the steering column to get to the brake/clutch pedal bushing and spring. Everything but the column is out now but I'm not sure how to remove the spring and bearing for the anti-theft lever on the end of the column? It looks like it would have to be removed before removing the column?What is the best way to do this.
Thanks,
Gary

 

Hello Gary,

I have a late '69 and have removed the column several times.

Once you have the column unbolted and ready to remove, insert the key and turn it to unlock the column and shift coller. Down at the firewall, there is a notch that will allow the lever to pass through into the car along with the column. I think the plate that the lower column bolts to that also holds the back-drive cable leading to the trans linkage covers this notch. Once those lower column bolts/nuts are out, that plate should come loose. You may have to push on the studs from inside the car to get it loose.
No diassembly of the column is required. All you have to do is move the lever until it lines up with the notch in the firewall. If the ignition switch wiring is disconnected, you can also rotate the whole column to line up with the notch. Then just pull the column through and you done.
It has been some years since I pulled this aprt for the first time, so I can't remember if there is insulation or some other covering over the notch in the firewall. But I can assure you that it's there.
If you have an assembly manual, follow the installation instructions for the column and your life will be much easier... trust me.

I hope this long-winded story helps.

Let me know if you need more help and also how it turns out,
JIM

 

Thanks Jim I appreciate it. Now I have something to look into. There's nothing left to the dash or interior at this point. When I finish welding the windshield frame and installing the headlight support I'll get back to the column. I may be asking for more info at that time.
Thanks again,
gary :thumbs:

 

Regardless if you have a standard (non-adjustable) or a T&T column, the procedure is the same. I did outline dropping and removing the column in some papers that I wrote. They are posted at http://www.corvettefaq.com in the Steering section.

Download the following:
Std Column Disassembly & Repair Paper #2 - Drop/remove steering column
Std Column Installation Pics

or

Tilt & Telescoping Column 69-82 Disassembly & Repair Paper #2
Tilt & Telescoping Column 69-82 Installation Pics

They are quite complete.

Good luck,

 

Gary, just an aside, what are you using to replace the rusted out corners-aftermarket pieces or originals from a donor car? I'm curious as to the fitment because I've had Corvette folks tell me that aftermarket may not match up as well as a donor piece. Just curious as this is something I'll be having done. Mike

 

Jim - thank you, I'll check out those papers.

Mike- I have the replacements corners and top piece. I was going to cut the old corners out and weld in the new but after looking at it I decided to repair the original metal. I'm using .040" sheet metal to form the area to be replaced and welding it in. After grinding it blends in fine and is as strong as the orignal corner. I'm painting the inside of the corner with POR15 before finishing it. I know some will burn off but not all will. The replacement would fit but you'll have to work them in but welding/grinding. It's important not to lose the alignment from the original frame too. You would have to tack weld a couple of supports across the corner so the top and side stay in the original fit. If you're going the replacement route then I'll be selling the corners I have,if you're interested IM me.
Gary :cheers: