Steering Column Woes-C2
I always wondered why there was so much lateral play in the upper steering/signal housing area, so this weekend I got into it. I discovered the three broken tabs from the top of the shaft jacket where they protrude through the metal retainer plate and seat in the bottom of the signal switch mechanism, and was puzzled why this would happen. I searched the archives and found that this is somewhat common. My question is; is this caused by extreem undue force on non-power steering or are these just real weak points and bad design. The upper bearing and all plastic switch componets were fine. Anyway I obviously need a new jacket. Who has the most acurate replacements of our typical suppliers? Also on a side note, the other two pictures show what a few hours of soaking rusted parts in rust remover will do. Its great stuff and huge time saver. I only spent about 10 minutes actually cleaning them, and no abrasives. Highly recommended. This is an early 64.
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Re: Steering Column Woes-C2
Jim,
I just recently removed my steering column (great winter projects time) and found my early '64 steering column mast broken in the very same way as your pictured. It does seem to be a common thing, so I'll be curious, as well, if anyone can answer your questions.
The cheapest one I have found so far in searching the parts houses was at Corvette Central for $60, but not sure how robust it is. Problem is I also need the upper and lower bearings and a few other small parts.
We also pulled my other friends late '64 steering column and he needs many parts (but strangely enough, not a column mast).
David -
Re: Steering Column Woes-C2
Jim,
I recently installed a mast from Long Island. It looks okay to me, but my eye may not be as critical as many more experienced observers on the TDB. I am, however, really impressed with the rust remover you used. Could have saved me hours of wire brushing at the grinding wheel! What brand is it?
JeffComment
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Re: Steering Column Woes-C2
Jim,
Parts look great! What brand "rust remover" did you use? I have some parts I would like to try it on. The mast jacket seems to be a week link on C3 cars also. I damaged mine in one weekend of auto crossing. First and last time for that. The gentleman at Corvette Steering in Anderson, SC fixed mine and the damage he described was much like yours (broken tabs). It is a tilt/tele unit and I hope to have it back in the car soon.Comment
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Re: Steering Column Woes-C2
Jeff,
I also use to wire brush but it took too long, removed some plating ,not to mention that occational projectile. Plus some areas you just can't get to. I have used "Safest Rust Remover.Com" in the past, but it was more expensive and had to pay shipping charge direct from Mfg. Then I tried a gallon of "Evaporust" by Harris Int'l Labs that I picked up at the local Oreilly Auto Parts store. It's in a gray jug with red lable. It works just as good and cost about $23/Gal. I think they sell a pint size also. I'm on my third gallon and use it on everything that has rust or corrosion. It doesn't harm rubber, vinyl, plastic, or most paint. Be sure to degrease the parts first for better quicker results. The best part is the ease of use; just throw the parts in a can or plastic food container while you work on something else, then rinse-done. I also buff them lightly by hand with a SOFT stainless steel brush to remove carbon film. It's also water soluable, can be reused over and over till reduced strength or real dirty then just pour down the drain. Here are a couple more pics of a heater fan. I don't know of any other way I could have accomplished this due to the intricacies and shape. Try some, you won't be disappointed. I sound like a commercial
but I too wish I had known of this procedure sooner. Good luck.
PS: use the smallest size container the part will fit in to conserve.Comment
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Re: Steering Column Woes-C2
Same with mine, apparently a '64 design flaw.
You might check the bearings while you have it apart.
HaNDComment
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Re: Steering Column Woes-C2
Hard to tell visually, Jim.
Some would suggest always replacing with new, but, with all the off shore or cross border suppliers, who know if you can get anything better than what you have.
Some may not admit it it, but the General actually did a lot of things right.
I would slide them into position, if they seem tight and smooth, you should be good to go.
Good Luck and HaNDComment
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Re: Steering Column Woes-C2
Jim,
Thanks for the info on the rust remover. I'm impressed. Safe and environmentally friendly as well! Almost seems too good to be true.
Jeff
PS - And yes, I spent hours on my squirrel cage with results that weren't as good as yours.Comment
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Re: Steering Column Woes-C2
I've heard that the tabs can be welded back on. Has anyone tried this? Seems like it would be hard to maintain the exact configuration, slot spacing and gap, straightness in line with the tube etc.Comment
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