Steering Column Woes

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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 02:19 PM
  #1  
smokinjos's Avatar
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Steering Column Woes

I'm having an unbelievable hard time removing my ignition lock cylinder from my 71 Supreme convertible.I've depressed the release inside the column, but just can't get the damn thing out. Anyone with similar problem? Might have to buy a new column. Anyone know where to get one besides Year One?
Old Oct 12, 2009 | 02:40 PM
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My442's Avatar
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You need a service manual to properly disassemble the column.

Lots of small parts, and a definate method to do it.

Otherwise, you are in for some disappointments.
Old Oct 12, 2009 | 02:46 PM
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Do you have the key in it and have turned to the Run position. It won't come out unless you do.
Old Oct 12, 2009 | 03:09 PM
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This link has some info.

http://www.buickperformance.com/tilt...lumnwobble.htm

The tang in the slot is being pressed in fully? You have to rotate it counterclockwise to install it and seat the tang so maybe you have to turn it before pulling up?
Old Oct 12, 2009 | 06:20 PM
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Originally Posted by 70 cutlass s
Do you have the key in it and have turned to the Run position. It won't come out unless you do.
Not true for 69 and newer. Henry
Old Oct 12, 2009 | 06:25 PM
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Originally Posted by smokinjos
I'm having an unbelievable hard time removing my ignition lock cylinder from my 71 Supreme convertible.I've depressed the release inside the column, but just can't get the damn thing out. Anyone with similar problem? Might have to buy a new column. Anyone know where to get one besides Year One?
Get a replacement lock cylinder at most any local parts store. They were used on most GM cars 69-77. Once you have the replacment look at it to help visualize the removal of your olds one. Also a good spray of wd40 or some such product will help.

Henry
Old Oct 12, 2009 | 07:11 PM
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Originally Posted by 70 cutlass s
Do you have the key in it and have turned to the Run position. It won't come out unless you do.
The lock cylinder can be removed without the key. I have had problems with the spring loaded tab hanging up and not fully depressing. Try pushing in on the lock cylinder, then depressing the tab fully, THEN pulling the lock cylinder outward.
Old Oct 13, 2009 | 06:29 AM
  #8  
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Originally Posted by joe_padavano
The lock cylinder can be removed without the key. I have had problems with the spring loaded tab hanging up and not fully depressing. Try pushing in on the lock cylinder, then depressing the tab fully, THEN pulling the lock cylinder outward.
Yeah that's right I was thinking about a newer style one. I haven't changed a 69-77 in 20 years. Just newer ones so I forgot. Thanks for giving him the correct advise.
Old Mar 22, 2014 | 02:16 PM
  #9  
MDchanic's Avatar
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Originally Posted by Bluevista
This link has some info.

http://www.buickperformance.com/tilt...lumnwobble.htm

The tang in the slot is being pressed in fully? You have to rotate it counterclockwise to install it and seat the tang so maybe you have to turn it before pulling up?
NOTE: The domain name, "BuickPerformance.com" was purchased by GM and now leads to the main Buick.com site.

The new link is at "BuickPerfomanceClub.com."

- Eric
Old Mar 22, 2014 | 02:45 PM
  #10  
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No, you would never need a new column! you just have to press really hard in the right place. Key in or out. You can try prying a little bit under the chrome bezel, although sometimes that will pop off. But if you are changing the cyl anyways it doesn't matter. if that bezel does pop off, you will have 1/8" or so to grip the cyl with channel locks. You can take off that whole collar and pry it from the backside. Finally...last ditch effort...dent puller like stealing the car! If the tab is pushed it won't damage anything, but the cyl. New cyl is only like 15.00 or something.
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