Hi guys/gals,

My 91 corvette/automatic is becoming more and more of a headache. I searched the forums a bit and did find some helpful info, but really felt like I should explain my situation thoroughly and see if I’m on the right track…

Recently my steering wheel seemed to be gaining slack and becoming wobbly. Last week, it had a lot of slack in it, more then usual, and when I tried to start my car, my ignition too had slack in it (meaning I could turn my key either direction all the way freely, not firing)! I was able to finally get the car to start, after moving/maneuvering the steering wheel for about 10 min, and hit the right spot. So now I believe I’m looking at getting a new steering column and ignition unless I am mistaken. I’ve already taken the steering wheel/airbag off and from what I can tell, seems like something internally in the tilt is shot maybe? And ignition, im not totally sure. So I guess my best bet is to find a steering column complete w/ignition if possible, right? Also what years are interchangeable with my 91/auto vette? I’m by no means a mechanic and this is the first time I’ve had issues with any steering column. The dealership said it would probably cost upwards of 1k+, and since I’m currently low on funds, really attempting to solve this issue on my own…

Thanks a lot in advance!

 

There are three screws in the column that loosen over time, really just a matter of disassembling it applying some loctite and re-torquing the screws. That said, the job can be intimidating the first time and there are a few special tools required, the FSM will be invaluable.
If you feel like it is beyond your ability you should be able to find a mechanic who will do it for way less than a grand, that seems ridiculously high even for a dealer. I believe the forum has a search function that will help locate reliable shops near your location, good luck.

 

I have this issue on my '91 too. In fact, the '90 I almost bought had the same issue. My understanding is the wheel and airbag must come out, and there is nuts that can be tightened at the base of the wheel. I am going to pay the dealer - my quote from Bergeys Chev in Colmar, PA was $300-$400. $1K sounds wrong. I'm not going to mess with an airbag. Get another quote - something is wrong.

 

hmmm, perhaps trying to get a new column isn't what i need afterall... I just figured it was a gonner. I was planning on buying a used column, but i guess i need to do some more checking.

 

Hi guys,

I've been dealing with final exams and school (still am), so just now getting around to purchasing one.
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I was wanting to know, for sure,,,, for the steering column on my 1991 auto vette, what years are interchangable with the column? I need to know asap, found a couple on the boards that I may be able to buy,
one is a 93, and the other is a rebuilt 90.

And lastly, (then i'll quit asking questions ) is it normal to find a used column with the whole signal switch assembly attached (whatever the proper technical turn for the signal is) and possibly ignition? My reason for asking is, my Signal switch is totally shot, it will not engage at all, and has a lot of play in it, moves freely in all directions. And similar issue with ignition, when i try to turn my key, it moves freely in either direction, and will not fire at all, just has complete slack, not hitting.... So something appears to be broken with both.

Sorry for asking these questions, I am new to these issues, and trying to learn how to solve it on my own to same some mullah.

Thanks again in advance!!!

 

I remember seeing a great write-up posted somewhere on the forum with pictures of all the steps involved with taking the column apart. Hopefully someone will chime in with it.

 

Alright, well i've discovered these columns appear to have everything i need,,,,,, just need to know what years are actually interchangable with the 91/auto... many thanks in advance!