Obviously, it would be a very bad thing if you lost the ability to control the steering because of a bad steering column. This would be something that you would want to take care of immediately. A bad steering column is not something you should leave alone because it will impact your driving ability and risk the lives of you, your passengers, and others on the road. Sometimes repairs are simply not the solution to the problem, and the only course of action for safe driving is steering column replacement.
Steering Columns
Steering columns have many objects attached to them including a shifter handle, a turn signal, and wiper activation handle, a button for hazard lights, a tilt lever to move the steering column up or down, and a horn button. Most newer steering columns have additional features in them like radio tuners and cruise control levers.
The steering column is connected to the suspension of a vehicle. More specifically, the steering column is the link between the steering wheel and the steering mechanism of a vehicle. This means that when a driver turns the steering wheel with their hands, the steering column is transferring this torque power to the steering shaft and pinion. From there, the wheels can turn left or right based on the direction in which the driver turned the steering wheel.
Symptoms of a Failing Steering Column
The symptoms include when the column starts making a clicking sound, it becomes loose internally or externally, or the steering tilt does not lock. The bushings inside the steering column tend to wear out over time, especially when the driver uses the steering wheel as an armrest applying more pressure to the bushings.
The tilt has hinges that hold up the tilted steering column. If the hinges become worn out, then the ignition system meets greater resistance when actuating.
General Steps for Steering Column Replacement
Removing and replacing a classic car’s steering column can vary depending on the specific make and model of the vehicle. However, here are general steps that may guide you through the process:
- Park your vehicle on a flat, hard surface: Make sure that the transmission is in Park (for automatics) or in first gear (for manuals).
- Place wheel chocks around the tires: Engage the parking brake to keep the rear tires from moving.
- Turn the steering wheel so that the front wheels are facing forward.
- Disconnect the Battery: Begin by disconnecting the vehicle’s battery to ensure electrical safety during the process.
- Remove the Steering Wheel: Use a steering wheel puller tool to remove the steering wheel. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using the tool properly. Some steering wheels may have a retaining nut or bolt that needs to be removed first.
- Disconnect Electrical Connections: Locate and disconnect any electrical connections associated with the steering column, such as the horn, turn signal switch, and any wiring harnesses.
- Remove the Lower Dashboard Panels: Remove any lower dashboard panels or covers that may be obstructing access to the steering column. This step may involve removing screws, bolts, or clips.
- Remove the pinch bolt from the steering coupler:This is what holds the column to the steering gear. You may have to move the steering wheel to access the bolt. Sometimes this is outside, or inside the vehicle.
- Loosen the Steering Column Mounting Bolts: Locate the steering column mounting bolts, which secure the column to the dashboard or the steering column support bracket. Loosen these bolts but do not remove them completely.
- Lower the Steering Column: Carefully lower the steering column to create enough clearance for removal. Pay attention to any wiring harnesses or cables that may be connected to the column. Disconnect them if necessary.
- Remove the Steering Column Mounting Bolts: Once the steering column is lowered and disconnected, remove the mounting bolts completely. Keep track of any washers or spacers that may be present.
- Remove the Steering Column: With the mounting bolts removed, carefully maneuver the steering column out of its position. Be mindful of any wiring harnesses or cables that may still be attached and disconnect them if necessary.
- Install the Replacement Steering Column: Align the replacement steering column in the correct position and connect any wiring harnesses or cables that were disconnected during the removal process.
- To install a new column, line it up inside the coupler and fasten it to the dash: The wheel on the new column needs to be pointed straight ahead. If yours had the mechanical shift indicator, install this on the new part before raising it all the way and cinching it up.
- Secure the Steering Column: Insert and tighten the mounting bolts to secure the replacement steering column in place. Ensure that the column is properly aligned and positioned.
- Install the pinch bolt so it is tight: Reinstall the boot over the coupler.
- Reconnect Electrical Connections: Reconnect any electrical connections that were disconnected earlier, such as the horn, turn signal switch, and wiring harnesses.
- Install Lower Dashboard Panels: Reinstall any lower dashboard panels or covers that were removed earlier. Secure them in place using screws, bolts, or clips.
- Install the Steering Wheel: Finally, use the appropriate method to install the steering wheel onto the replacement steering column. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing the steering wheel properly.
- Reconnect the Battery: Once all the steps are completed, reconnect the vehicle’s battery.
Custom Steering Columns
When replacing your vintage car’s steering column, you may want to upgrade the column with some more modern features such as tilting, telescopic, or even high beam switches. In these cases, there are providers for custom columns like Ididit or Flaming River to reach out for their inventory of steering columns. They may have columns that are a direct fit, or you may have to have them make a one-off custom steering column for your vintage car.
Finally
It is important to note that the steering column replacement process may vary depending on the specific vehicle, and for the most part can be completed in less than a day. It is recommended to consult the vehicle’s repair manual or seek professional assistance if you are unsure about any steps or if your vehicle has unique requirements.
