69 Steering Column Removal

[Brad H.]

Hey guys,
I need to remove the T/T steering column from my 69. I have read Jim Shea's steering papers and chassis service manual and I can't determine if the left instrument panel has to come out to get it out of the car. Can the electrical / mechanical connections to the column be disconnected without removing the inst panel? As you can guess from this, I really don't want to remove that panel if I don't absolutely have to.
Thanks for any advice,
Brad

[Jim S.]

Re: 69 Steering Column Removal

No, you don't have to remove the instrument cluster in order to remove the steering column. You should disconnect the battery and then remove the steering wheel. Here are the rest of the procedures:
1). The turn signal switch "harmonica" connector can easily be reached and disconnected from the vehicle wiring harness after you remove the plastic panel, the metal bracket, and the air distribution hose crossing under the steering column.

2). You will have to remove the two nuts K from inside the car and release the lower end of the column on the floor pan. Remove the fastener AD and washer that attach the interlock cable AC to the pin on the lever on the lower end of the column. You can now remove the plate N on the dash in the engine compartment.

3). Remove the two vertical screws and washers H that hold the column up into the dash.

4). Now you can reach and remove the two electrical connectors on the vehicle harness that attach to the ignition switch.

5). Remove the two nuts and lock washers that connect the flexible coupling to the steering column flange.

6). Place the interlock lever on the lower end of the steering column in the full UP position. (There is a cutout in the dash panel that allows the lever to pass through when it is full UP.) You can now pull the steering column back into the driver compartment.

Jim

[Brad H.]

Re: 69 Steering Column Removal

Jim,
I can't thank you enough for all that information. Your steering papers are just sensational and we all really appreciate your expertise and help with these issues.
THANKS AGAIN,
Brad Hood