1977 steering column trim removal

[Patrick H.]

The 77 here has a washer function switch that is not working. On a 77, there is a piece of trim just behind this switch, and over the tilt mechanism, that might give me a good look at the switch without having to disassemble the column.

See photo below. The tilt lever is the one on the upper left, the washer/wiper/turn is the lower right.

Is there a way to remove this piece of trim without breaking it? I have seen pictures of it removed, but nothing states how to do it correctly. I will be getting a 7/32 wrench to unscrew the tilt lever first.

And advice you have is appreciated.

Patrick

[Richard M.]

Re: 1977 steering column trim removal

Patrick, I have a complete 1977 Service manual set. I looked for any details about that piece but nothing found.

How about Jim Shea's papers? I didn't look there yet but here are his links....

http://jimshea.corvettefaq.com/?p=1009

Edit..... This doc file shows that part, but not how to remove it....

http://jimshea.corvettefaq.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/keyreleasetiltcolumnwithdimmerblowup.doc

Above found at this link...

http://jimshea.corvettefaq.com/?p=1001

Rich

[Patrick H.]

Re: 1977 steering column trim removal

I found those too.
There's a YouTube video where a (not that particular) guy takes one apart, but he doesn't show how he removes it.

After 40+ years the plastic is probably brittle. One "snap" and I'm screwed.

[Richard M.]

Re: 1977 steering column trim removal

Patrick,

I zoomed in on Jim's doc file and cropped and enlarged that area to see better. Once the housing is apart it probably slides out, but obviously it may have to come apart. I worked on a 79 Tele column once to change the Cruise Control/Directional Lever. It was not fun.



Just found some photos of a new housing and cover on ebay...Cover Here If you go to the link the 3rd photo allows Zoom when you pan over it.
But I don't see anything obvious as to how it's held in there. Maybe you can.






Also a 77 column with that cover removed showing the switch. Link Here

[Patrick H.]

Re: 1977 steering column trim removal

Thanks Rich for your efforts.

That used 77 column doesn't show an obvious problematic attachment points. As you noted, it's a bit difficult to assess the replacement piece and how it might attach.