78 GMC Steering column

[parrisc19844x4_468]

thanks for any help in advance. I disassembled my steering column to replace the bearing and some other warn parts. I need help to understand how to line up the lock tumbler and the starter linkage to the starter switch. I have it close but wont get to the position to engage the starter. Help

[mikentosh]

i Just did this yesterday morning and I will say it is one of the more frustrating things to do. First question is are you working on a tilt or non-tilt column?

On a non-tilt I think the two places it can be off are misalignment between the actuator rack and the gear that the ignition tumbler slides in to. When it’s put together the rack has to be on the right tooth of the gear or you won’t get full exension of the key (either it won’t go into ACC position or it won’t turn all the way to start).

The second place is down at the ignition switch. The switch has oval holes which allows for minor adjustment up or down to correctly engage. There isn’t a lot of adjustment here.

[parrisc19844x4_468]

Thanks Mike, its a non-tilt , automatic.

Yes, I understand that the aligment has to be right there is where I am stuck. on. I am going to try to get some decent pictures this morning yet.

I am not sure that I even have actuator rack in the right position before I slide the housing into the rack, when I do it pushed the actuator rack down, should I be holding the actuator rack from sliding down to the on position?

[parrisc19844x4_468]

Got it Mike, thanks.

The trick is to set the gear so the flat portion is facing the top, pull the
actuator rack all the way out, the housing with the gear should slide freely over the actuator. That worked for me anyway.

[mikentosh]

Glad you got it. Its quite tough to describe...easier with pictures. I found its best to have the section of the column containing the key separated from the rest of the column, then get the gear and the rack lined up correctly (on the right tooth), then gently install the ignition key tumbler into that section and onto the gear (which will hold the gear from moving and the rack locked place), then you can slide that section back down over top of the column.