Steering Column frustrations

[chrismoore701]

I am now assembling my 79 step-side sport after a 7 year frame off, (Kids) and I went out to the garage about a week ago to install the steering column that had been stored in the top of the garage all this time. I actually had three to choose from, the original, not going to use this one, and two tilts. Planned to grab the best and stab it in. Well that did not happen. The shift collar was cracked. So now I have to completely disassemble it to replace this collar. After I finally decided to pull the trigger on that, I pulled all three apart and used the best parts to build one. Greased everything, sand blasted and painted everything. I had two 78/79 columns and one 76/77 column. Most parts are interchangeable. Went out last night to install the turn signal cam. Complete and ready to install. Well now it will not shift. Pulled the whole thing apart to look into the issue. Used the shift collar from the 76/77 and the ignition rod from the 78/79. This does not work. Took about three times of partial assembly to see the issue. She is together and working now ready to stab in a week later. this is the other reason it has taken 7 years. Problem now is I spent a little too much time in the garage last night and I am sure the wife is not happy since I woke her up when I came to bed. so now I have to wait a couple days to finally put it in. But I tell you what. I can tear apart and rebuild a tilt column in less than an hour. a good column that is.

[lilpoindexter]

Keep on trucking. The finish line is in sight.

[Gregski]

know the feelin'