65 STEERING COLUMN REBUILD

[LUCKY13]

I bought the wedge and screw from Dr. Rebuild to take the play out of my steering column but there are no instructions on installation. Has anyone installed one of these? The people at Dr. Rebuild have not been very helpful.

 

[Ken Anderson]

That won't work.

 

[LUCKY13]

65 steering column

What do you mean, it won't work?

 

[Ken Anderson]

First you must determine where the play is. Then you repair/replace the part.

 

[LUCKY13]

65 steering column

I replaced every part in the column including the column shaft and I still have side to side play at the top.

 

[cfalson]

Did you adjust the pre-load in the bearings by installing the thrust washer and compression sping and clamp aganist the lower bearing, If not thats your problem.

 

[LUCKY13]

65 steering column

I did that but remember, my play is at the top and is side to side, not in and out.

 

[Charlie '64]

Lucky, I just rebuilt the steering column in my 64. I don't know if the steering columns are constructed the same or not. I know there were some changes between 63 and 64. How much play is there and does the entire column (mast jacket) move or is the steering shaft moving within the mast jacket? I had also purchased the screw and block but ended up not using them, they were a 63 only item. The turn signal was changed for 64 and while the turn signal housing is the same, the block and screw were no longer required.

 

[cfalson]

Lucky, if you did not add enough preload it will show up as a sloppy column, the turn signals will not cancel correctly and as you turn the wheel it will feel loose.

 

[LUCKY13]

65 steering column

I received some directions from Dr. Rebuild today. I''ll test this tonight and see how it works.

 

[LUCKY13]

65 steering column

I've finally located my problem. I have play within the top bearing (located in the turn signal assembly, even though the assembly, bearing and shaft are new. My question to the experts is where can I buy a better top bearing that does not have movement between the outer and inner races, there's too much clearance between the balls and the races.

 

[Charlie '64]

Lucky, I ordered all my parts including turn signal and bearing from Long Island Corvette. First time I had ordered parts from them and was quite satisfied with service and quality of parts. Good luck!