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Steering Column Swap

3172 Views 11 Replies 5 Participants Last post by  dgwar, 
O
Guys

I am swapping from a non tilt column to a tilt column. Somewhere I have seen some info about this process. The docs I am thinking about ncluded a lot ofcool hard to find info abuout the subtile differences in the colums from year to year/ some info on wiring and other priceless tidbit. I know about Jim Sheas information but I believe there was something else floating around cyberspace. Jims info is more oriented toward rebuilding the entire column...this info I am seeking wasmore on the point of swapping the colums.

Since I have never worked with a tilt column and I think this one I have needs a new lock tumbler I was thinking I might put the tumbler from my car into the tilt unit? Anyone know if that works? If so what does it take to do the job? If it does not swap into the tilt where can I get a tumbler / tumbler mech that will work? If the original one from my non tilt will work great but if it takes a box full of specal tools to remove it from the non tilt column well then perhaps it would just be more efficient to just buy a new tumbler.

Any help is greatly appreciated.
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DZAUTO
As Leo mentioned, the actual ign switch (on TOP of column, under the dash) can be used from your existing column. It has to be flipped over because the actuating rod (that comes down from the lock cylinder) moves in opposite directions for tilt and non-tilt columns.

Columns UP TO 1978 will interchange (A-bodies, Camaros, etc). The 78-earlier steering column shaft/coupler had splines. In 1979, the shaft/coupler changed to 2 flats for the shaft/coupler. Several years ago, we installed a tilt column from a 1978 Z28 into my son's 71 Chevelle. Perfect fit, zero modifications! BUT, about 1976, some bolts/nuts were metric, so if you use a later column with metric fasteners, save and use them (the ones I'm referring to are the 2 which attached the column to the underside of the dash).
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