Light switch tube too tight

[Mad Mac]

After installing the light switch tube in my 7-tooth steering column it moved freely in the steering shaft. But when I screwed in the oil seal retainer at the bottom of the tube, the switch at the steering wheel became almost too tight to move. I know the bottom oil seal is usually made of felt, but mine is made of rubber and I am guessing that the rubber compresses and pinches the tube when the nut is screwed tight. I have always preferred a thick rubber washer down there as it prevents oil leaks and avoids having to install that little brass tube leak-preventer. I am guessing that I have to unscrew the nut a few turns to relieve the pressure on the switch, but as this will require removing the spider and its PITA c-clip I am hoping someone here can suggest an easier solution.

[BRENT in 10-uh-C]

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I have encountered this several times, and a reamer up into the shaft is the way to clearance the brass tube.