need help steering column change

[89k5350]

well after my last thread about the turn signal switch im missing to much in the column so a local junkyard is selling me a complete one for 100 bucks its tilt with the delayed wiper lever and i might need some help from some of you when changing this ok my first question is when taking out the old column where do i start ? is there anything i should or need to disconnect first? any tips or suggestions would be great!! im going to start this project on friday but id thought id post a thread now so i know what to expect when i start changing them ill take pics and post my progress along the away and thank you for those of you that helped me with the turn signal switch

 

[76zimmer]

remove the rag joint bolts, from the steering box coupler.
remove shifter linkage if necessary.
remove the firewall plate that has a gasket to seal it to the firewall.
remove the lower dash sheetmetal panel for access.
remove the lower steering column support plate (cast aluminum w 2 nuts)
lower the steering column to gain access to the electrical plug on the top side of the lower portion of the column.



(disclaimer)
these items may or may not apply to your situation.
information may or may not be correct.
your results may vary.
not available in MI, IN, or OH.

 

[80' 427]

You forgot the "this item is made with substances known to cause cancer in California".

 

[89k5350]

thank you are the rag joint bolts the ones that bolt the steering shaft to the steering box?

 

[76zimmer]

thank you are the rag joint bolts the ones that bolt the steering shaft to the steering box?

yes

 

[89k5350]

this going to be hard job?

 

[89k5350]

approximately where is the lower steering column support plate?

 

[shady]

right where the column first touches the dash.

 

[89k5350]

awsome thanks for the help im sure ill be asking more questions along the way anyone know approx how long it takes to do this?

 

[Richcz28]

I had mine in and out in total work time like 3-4 hours but that was the same column. Also there is a little bracket under the hood against the firewall that clamps around the column you need to remove. It's below the booster and has two nuts. It's easiest to put this bracket back on before reinstalling the rubber seal behind the pedals.

If the truck is an auto don't forget to take the dash plate off to unhook the shifter indicator string.

I didn't take my column off at the rag joint I took the bolt out up above. This may make it easier to navigate out of the truck.

 

[89k5350]

great info and i appreciate it but could you be a lil more specific the bolt up above ? like maybe a location? sorry just wanna do it right so i dont half to take it to a shop im new to steering column stuff

 

[Richcz28]

There's only one other bolt where it separates. It's a stud with a nut on one side. The head has a square that seats into the colum, but you can't see that till you take it out. You will probably need a hammer to seperate it after taking that bolt out.