tilt column
 

I have a 78 tilt column in my truck and it's just the slightest bit loose - I guess 22 years will do that to you.
I've read that on other vehicle there are some screws in there that get loose and cause the symtoms. Anyone fixed this?
Also, the ignition switch - when I turn the key to start the engine, it used to spring back to the on position. Now it only kind of springs back, but usually I have to manually turn it back or else my starter gets spun by the now-running engine (thank god for lifetime starters from Autozone.) Is there a spring in there that does this? Is the spring built into the ingition switch itseld so if I changed the ignition switch (pretty easy I've been told) that it would fix it?
-- Mike '76 k20

I just noticed I'm the first poster on both 73-87 boards. Kinda cool.

Hey i dont even need a key for my 78 Big 10, it works without, but shhhhh, its a secret.
Theres 3 screws down under the turn switch assembly, that came loose on you. The ign switch is spring loaded, and I'm not sure if anything else in there is spring loaded or not, its most likely the switch itself.
Good luck on it...

There are four screws that get loose on GM tilt columns. They have 12 point heads and are buired pretty deep. You'll have to take the upper half of the column apart to get to them.You will need a couple of tools made for steering columns or you can get by with out them but its not as easy. Best thing to do is get a picture from a gm manual. I think I have one, If I do I'll send it to you. About your key switch, there are two parts that makes it spring back.The main spring is in the electical switch located on the outside top of the column under the dash.A rod runs from it to the key switch. Inside the column there is a small spring and gear set up that helps move the rod back and forth.You will see all this when you have the column apart to tighten up your loose screws.I've fixed alot of loose tilts like yours. It takes alot of patience.

O, 4, my bad, it's been awhile. I'll be tearing into two of these soon....

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'68 C-10 LWB Fleet, '72 355 4 bolt, TH350, 3:73,
'78 Big 10 LWB Fleet, '74 4bolt 350, TH350, 3:08,
79 Hondamatic CM-400
'77 Buick Electra Limited,403
'72 C-10 LWB Fleet, P/D/B, P/S, Auto, Buckets
83 Caprice, 86 Buick Regal Limited Coupe V8 auto
84 Camaro V8 Auto

I HAVE A TILT WHEEL OUT OF A 79 AUTOMATIC TRUCK IN GREAT SHAPE EXCEPT I LOST THE KEY. 100.00 INCLUDES SHIPPING