Swapping Column

[DCEPTCN]

How much of a pain in the ass is swapping the column? I just ordered one from Bweavy because mine's always been pretty jacked.

[87natty]

Haven't done it myself, but doesn't look to bad. You might be able to get away with just dropping the bottom panel thing and a couple of nuts. Maybe not.

[DCEPTCN]

Well, I haven't had a chance to get a look at it yet, but I'm thinking it *should* be pretty simple. My biggest concern is the wiring....I don't want to be splicing and heat-shrinking under my dash all day long.

[Recklessrob]

All the wiring goes through connectors, so no problem there.
Remember to disconnect the linkage arm that goes to the
transmission (it actuates the mechanical neutral safety switch
and the lockout device) Be sure and save your old column
for parts, especially the horn ring and stuff.

[SuperSix]

Hmmm..

Looks like another FAQ needs to be done.

I did mine 2 weeks ago..

[DCEPTCN]

Hmmm..

Looks like another FAQ needs to be done.

I did mine 2 weeks ago..

Well, motherfucker? Get to work.

[SuperSix]

Hmmm..

Looks like another FAQ needs to be done.

I did mine 2 weeks ago..

Well, motherfucker? Get to work.

Well! Since you asked so nicely!

cockbite

[DCEPTCN]

Hmmm..

Looks like another FAQ needs to be done.

I did mine 2 weeks ago..

Well, motherfucker? Get to work.

Well! Since you asked so nicely!

cockbite

Well, motherfucker- get to work, please.

[SuperSix]

Hahaha..

Here's some pics of the parts I had left over...

[DCEPTCN]

Oh boy- that's helping to intimidate me a bit.

[SuperSix]

Oh boy- that's helping to intimidate me a bit.

Cool! Worked as intended..  :snakeman:

Well.. there's good things about doing the work.. It's GREAT to have a fully functioning, tight column...  Makes it feel like it just came off the showroom floor (remember, the column I used as a replacement was lo-mile)

And the fact that it will cost you BIG bucks to have someone else do it. You DO have your TR service manual, correct?

The onyl thing I don't like about it is that the goddamn column works TOO good now - the key reminder buzzser works as it should, and I can no longer take the key out w/the ignition on, that used to be handy in popping the trunk.. Guess I need to get off of my lazy ass and install the remote trunk release.

[DCEPTCN]

I really only need to replace the column up top (ignition switch, turn signals, etc.)- is there any way to just replace that and not the whole damn assembly that runs through the firewall and all that shit?

[87natty]

Do what I do, go to a junkyard where you can work on the car yourself and tear apart some unsuspecting Regal and then walk away.

[Recklessrob]

The ignition switch is further down the column. Its relatively
easy to change. You have to remopve the steering wheel and
lock plate to replace the directional switch. Then snaking the wires through the
column is a real PITA. I usually take the connector apart on
the new one to make more room. I cut thr wires off of the old one and use it as
a guide for putting the new one back together once I have the wires through the
column. You'll need some special tools for the directional switch part of it.

[DCEPTCN]

Well, the old column came out last night. Not as much of a bitch as I had intended, but still not a lot of fun, either. I know that putting that pin back in that holds the tranny linkage will be a bit difficult, but other than that the installation of the newer column should be quick and painless. I can't believe how many damn wires/connectors there are down there! I had to put pieces of tape on them all so as to be sure where everything goes. I also had to be very careful pulling the column out of there once it was all disconnected because that big flange that bolts to the firewall was getting caught up in the rat's nest of wires down there- threatening to unhook numerous gauges, SMC kit, etc. I can't wait to have functional signals an brights and all dat chit.