Steering wheel lock - does not lock

[Jerome P.]

Recently the steering wheel lock does not lock all the time. When it does not lock I am able to turn the steering wheel freely with the transmission (4-speed manual) in reverse, the ignition key removed and the ignition switch in the locked position. Any ideas as to what I need to do to correct?

[Stephen B.]

Re: Steering wheel lock - does not lock

Here's a plate with slots in the steering column. When you put the key into "Lock," a rod about 1/4" to 3/8" round is inserted into one of the slots. You need to pull the steering wheel and, I believe (it's been awhile) remove the turn signal assembly to get to the switch and the plate. Look at a blown up diagram and see what's going wrong.

[Joseph S.]

Re: Steering wheel lock - does not lock

It sounds like the cable from the transmission to the steering column has gone bad or had disconnected. Hope that it is disconnected. Once they bind and kink you can throw them in the scrap pile.

[Stephen B.]

Re: Steering wheel lock - does not lock

I don't believe it is the cable because I literally took the cable off of my car, and the lock still works. The problem is internal in the column.

[Joseph S.]

Re: Steering wheel lock - does not lock

Could very well be possible. I believe that the plunger mechanism that locks the column is spring loaded. It runs off a gear set up attached to the ignition tumbler. If that is stuck down with old crappy grease it can't engage.

[Mark E.]

Re: Steering wheel lock - does not lock

I don't believe it is the cable because I literally took the cable off of my car, and the lock still works. The problem is internal in the column.

That's right. The locking pin and lock wheel (or whatever the "plate with slots" Stephen mentioned is called) in the column is what locks the column. The cable to the transmission locks the shift linkage when the locking pin and wheel are engaged.

But it's possible the cable isn't rotating the column quite far enough to engage the pin. While in reverse (or with the cable disconnected) try rotating the collar on the column by hand as far as possible, then check if the column will lock when the key is removed. If it does, the cable needs to be adjusted or replaced. As designed, the cable pushes a lever as reverse is engaged. If the shifter is forced into reverse, the cable can bind or bend while trying to push column lever. Once bent, the cable won't do its job very well and needs to be replaced.

[Fred H.]

Re: Steering wheel lock - does not lock

1.jpgHi Jerry, we also have 72 LT1 w/air conditioning coupe #26756. And we're also experiencing steering wheel lock, our ignition switch lock function works correctly. Curious if you solved the issue?

Fred Hickey

[Jerome P.]

Re: Steering wheel lock - does not lock

I believe I had the problem Mark E. explained in this thread. I had the problem fixed. It was inexpensive, and it works great.

Sorry I could not be of more help.

[Fred H.]

Re: Steering wheel lock - does not lock

I appreciate you getting back to me. If it's ok to inquire, we're curious as to the build date & last four digits on you VIN.

[Jerome P.]

Re: Steering wheel lock - does not lock

I will have to get back to you. The car is at my garage.

[Fred H.]

Re: Steering wheel lock - does not lock

No problem whenever you have time. Thanks Fred

[John S.]

[Fred H.]

Re: Steering wheel lock - does not lock

Hi John, we have a non T/ T column 4 speed car (original to the car). The key lock operation functions correctly, however the steering wheel lock up doesn't.

[John S.]

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I would check the condition of the pin, gear and the spring itself. With the wheel removed you should be able to see where the problem is. Good luck !!

[Fred H.]

Re: Steering wheel lock - does not lock

Hi John, your tips and photos are of great help. I plan to post a follow up after we get it working