Rad Dog

Hi again fold, I ran out of time and had to work all day every day for the fall season, but now I'm back at it and trying to find a new column,
I cant find a non tilt column but one parts place has a tilt and they insist that it will work.
I don't believe them because why would they even ask if it didnt matter?
Does anyone know if I can really put a tilt column right on there with no trouble?

Manuellabour247

I have replaced a few non tilt steering columns with tilt ones. they will work just like a non-tilt steering wheel so long as all of the mounts lign up and the tail (bottom) is the same dimensions as the non-tilt (not longer so it effects your steering linkage to your gearbox) If it is a tilt from the same year it should in theory be exactly the same dimensions for mounting, just a tilt wheel instead of straight. If you go that route, make sure the return policy allows you to bring it back if it doesn't fit. I haven't had any problems with the tilt steering wheels I have installed, but I prefer the tilt steering wheel over the standard.

Another thing is to make sure it has all the electrical hookups that yours does now (hazards, turn signals, etc.), that is if the new column comes with everything already in it. It should, but you never know. Other than that it should be a relatively easy swap. Just disconnect the old one and pull it out, then do the reverse with the new one. You might need a helper to feed the linkage into the bottom of the steering column, or you can leave it loose until you get it to feed and tighten everything up.

One thing though, make sure your wheels are straight when it's on the ground. When you are stabbing the linkage together it can turn the wheels. It's not a bad thing, but I like my steering wheel to be straight when my wheels are straight (personal choice). Keep us posted.

Rad Dog

Thanks manuel.
I got the column but I have another question.
It looks like they torched off this linkage (see pic).
What do you call this type of fastener(red arrow) and can it be undone and re fastened to the one that is in my truck?
There's a nut and bolt in the other end on the one that attaches to my truck. This looks like a one-time kind of fastener.

RLXXI

That is called a grommet they make a pair of pliers specific to that type of reusable fastener but you can get it out using a flat tip punch or drift and a hammer, to reinstall your linkage just squeeze it together with a pair of regular pliers. If you spray some lube on it like WD40 or something it'll go out and in easier.

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Rad Dog

i got a tool called a tie rod remover and it worked. Thanks everyone.
I have to p/u my gf so I'll finish everything tomorrow and post results of this ordeal.

Rad Dog

I got the damn thing in and it starts and shifts and does everything right, the only thing I screwed up is that I broke the little white thing with the cable that moves the needle to tell what gear your in. I dont think I care at this point.
thanks for everybodies help.

Manuellabour247

Glad to hear everything worked out ok.