oldjunk

Hi Guys!
I have a 1972 Cutlass S with the factory tilt steering wheel option. My problem is that something is broken or worn out so that the wheel is too loose and "flops" up and down, more than what is should. Fortunately, I am not currently driving this car, as this is probably unsafe, but the steering still works. I have never torn into a steering column before, and I was curious if anyone else has encountered a similar problem, or may be able to provide advice before I try to fix it.

rocketraider

There are four small screws down in the column that work loose and cause this. IIRC you have to remove:

the lock plate

the turn signal lever and actuator cam

and you should then be able to access them with a 1/4" (I think, may be 5/16") socket and a 6" extension. A flex drive may make it easier.

Get yourself a 1972 factory shop manual if you're unsure about it. It's a worthwhile investment for the car anyway.

joe_padavano

Here's an overview of the repair:

http://buickperformance.com/tiltstee...lumnwobble.htm

Bluevista

I just did mine, very common problem. It isn't hard but has lots of little pieces-parts, you really do need a manual.

I used that article Joe posted and these two for reference.

http://www.superchevy.com/tech/sucp_...umn/index.html

http://www.fiero.nl/forum/Forum2/HTML/088020.html

oldjunk

Thanks a ton! I never would have come up with that fix by myself. Hope I don't have any parts left over!