72 Steering Column Question
 

My buddy is almost finished with the '72 stepside hes building and he has an issue with the steering column/shifter linkage.
The indicator would actually go past park. He tried adjusting everything that had an adjustment and in the end he took it all apart to find this. Looks like this plate is pretty worn down. Neither one of us could find a photo of how its supposed to look without the wear.
Can anyone tell me if this can be replaced ? Or is there another option ? Maybe a column from a newer year is the same ?
My buddy is super picky. Im sure he would want something thats OEM and not an aftermarket replacment column. Anyone have any suggestions ?

Re: 72 Steering Column Question
 

The shift plate is flat except the raised area for park. Build it up with weld and carefully grind it.
I sell columns and have a pretty nice one for sale if you need it.
I have never seen a perfect one.

Re: 72 Steering Column Question
 

Picture here.
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=783503

That column is sold but i have others.

Re: 72 Steering Column Question
 

Thanks for the quick reply. That wedge is one thickness from top to the point ?
My buddy does everything from stick to TIG welding. Hes pretty talented. Plus he had a Bridgeport milling machine in his garage. If thats what it looks like Im sure he'll try to repair what he has.

Re: 72 Steering Column Question
 

Follow the link i posted, there is a picture there of a real nice detent, barely worn.

Re: 72 Steering Column Question
 

Thanks. I saw the picture in the link. Thats what made me ask if the wedge shape was the same thickness all the way through to the point. Also, is the edge rounded from new or 90 degree and just rounded from wear ?
What about the piece thats on the other side ? The piece that rides on that. Does that get worn just a bad ?

Re: 72 Steering Column Question
 

The one in the picture is slightly worn. Should be consistent thickness top to bottom.
The piece that moves is rounded with a squarish edge. I dont have a picture of that, they usually wear less for some reason.

Re: 72 Steering Column Question
 

I printed this whole post and ran it over to my friends shop. He was already almost finished with repairing it. It looked pretty good. Im sure when he fine tunes the welded area and finished forming the wedge its going to be like new.
Thanks for taking the time to reply to my question !!