1984 4 speed steering column help!

[72blu]

So today on the way to work I had the windshield washer/turn signal stock switch completely break on me. This isnt my first time tearing into a GM coulmn so I dove right in and started tearing it down to get access to the switch. Unfortunately for whatever reason I cant seem to find any information regarding how to remove the upper column housing on a 4 speed column. All the videos and posts ive followed show people breaking down automatic columns were all they do is remove the final four screws that secure it to the base and it simply seperates. For whatever reason mine wont separate even after ive removed the four screws.

Any help is appreciated and ive included a picture of the switch that broke on me

[72blu]

Here is another picture of where im at with the disassembly. Hopefully one of you will be able to offer some knowledge! Thanks again

[Big Moose]

You have to remove the snap ring, not a lot of fun to put back together

[72blu]

Thanks for the response!

So im having a hard time identifying this snap ring. There apears to be bearing of sorts as I can see the little balls within it. Does the whole bearing slide up the shaft? If it does how would I go about sliding it up. This is the first time ive delt with a standard column so im a little stumped on the differences.

Thanks

[Big Moose]

Originally Posted by kaysboat

Not sure if you are still having this issue or not, but here are some great resources.

http://www.carcraft.com/howto/56459/

http://www.texas4x4.org/tech-writeup...-column-18823/

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/rep...00c1528004c76d

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/rep...00c1528004c792

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/rep...00c1528004c78b

http://www.crankshaftcoalition.com/w...ck_Rebuild.pdf

You may find some of these resources helpful

[72blu]

Alright ive got an update that will put this thread to bed.

First off thank you again for providing that info.

Secondly, from this experience ive learned that standard columns are much trickier to disasemble then then the automatics. The clutch pedal and associated linkage makes it very difficult to work under the dash and its almost impossible to do without someone pulling down on the column in order to lossen the bracket that clamps down the high beam switch & ignition saftey switch. In order to separate the upper collar from the lower (to get at the wiper switch) you must first remove the blue ignition switch that is located at the bottom of the column right next to the high beam switch. This will allow you to get the rod free that connects the switch to the ignition lock. Once its free the entire collar will slide right off the column shaft. There are 3 phillips screws inside the collar that need to be takin out and then finnaly the two pieces (upper and lower collar) will separate giving you access to the windshield washer switch. Patience is key and nothing needed to be forced so keep that in mind while disassembling & reassembling.

Thanks again for the help & I hope this info helps someone else who may need it