Steering Column Lock Mechanism
 

I want to refurbish my 1946 passenger car steering column lock mechanism. I have removed the column from the car and the column drop assembly from the column. I have also removed the lock cylinder from the column drop assembly. Now I don't see how to remove the locking rod assembly from the column drop. I'm suspecting that the chrome cap on the end probably needs to come off, but I don't see how do do that. Any help would be appreciated.

Re: Steering Column Lock Mechanism
 

the chrome cap pulls off but good luck they are usually stuck pretty hard. I think someone on the barn is remaking those caps if you end up destroying the cap

Re: Steering Column Lock Mechanism
 

CWJ-

Yup, the cap needs to come off. However, the cap doesn't like to come off. It is pressed on which means it has to be pulled off. It is difficult to do without harming the cap. The best approach I have found is to remove the "on-off" switch plate. This will allow you to shift the entire locking shaft and cap to the right, enough that you will have a small gap between the cap and the housing. Using a small screw driver as a wedge you can work the cap off. If you damage the cap a replacement one is available for about $20 but is made out of aluminum which is very soft and easily damaged. However, all is not lost. Usually, with the use of a Dremmel tool you can go a long way in removing pits and scars on the cap. When finished, I just buff and polish. You would be surprised on the results you can have with a little amount of work.

Hope this helps.

Tom

Re: Steering Column Lock Mechanism
 

Re: Steering Column Lock Mechanism
 

Gumpy. Why not post that email on the Forum for all of us to read. Copy and paste it here.