Steering wheel removal caution.

[IdahoDoug]

Yesterday I installed a new ignition switch which required removal of the steering wheel. It went very fast - probably took 45 minutes from beginning to end. I used the guide on Clark's Garage. Very helpful. However an important point is left out.

When you reinstall, you should have the key in the ignition and turn it to the 'run' position. This retracts the steering wheel lock - a block of metal. I could not get my steering wheel back on and was pushing it harder and harder when I gave up and removed things to see what's going on. I had been shoving the steering lock against a thin plastic bearing housing that remains on the steering shaft and works to hold the bearing in place when properly assembled. As a result, I chewed up the flange portion that doesn't affect operation but serves to keep coarse dust and grit out of the bearing.''

Not a big deal, but if you keep at this you could fracture the plastic flange and I don't think they're available or easy to replace. So a head's up.

I also found it easier to put the upper steering column trim back in place WITH the steering lock/ignition mechanism due to clearances. You kind of slide them in together. I could not get the trim back in separately afterwards due to unacceptable pressure required to displace the instrument plastic. Tight fit. But pushing them in together worked perfectly.

I took the opportunity to lubricate the bearing while doing the work, as shown in the Clark's guide. Very simple job.

[Bukowski]

I love you

Seriously though, ... this will flash into my head next time I do this. IdahoDoug, you’ve earned ... something.

[IdahoDoug]

Cool! An easy job and a tip worth knowing.