how do I replace steering column 1976 c10 auto

[saxxman24@msn.com]

I need to replace the steering column in my 1976 c10, automatic. What is the procedure for doing this? I'm sure I can do it myself with the tools I have, but I just want to make sure I don't screw anything up. Any step by step would be very helpful. Thanks.

[Irish_Alley]

http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php?topic=23154.msg192494#msg192494

To make it a little easier rotate the steering wheel so the nut on the bolt faces about 10 o'clock so you can get to it with an extension.  At that point lock the column and pull the key.  Start under the hood.  Look at how the column comes through the firewall.  There are 2 nuts right at the firewall underneath your brake booster that have to be removed.  That step by far is the biggest PITA, 15mm swivel socket is what it is gonna take.  The strap (u shaped piece with 2 studs that the 15 MM nuts go on) only goes one way.  The end of the column there is a bolt that needs to be removed from the intermediate shaft (the piece between the column and steering box/rag joint).  The shifter linkage, if and automatic needs to be disconnected.  Then inside under the dash at the firewall underneath there are 10 or so bolts/sheet metal screws 10MM holding the flashing piece (don't know what it is called) but it should be on the new column.  There is cardboard/insulation that is brittle under there that you have to move out of the way to get to it.  Then there is the filler piece under the dash that needs to be removed 6 phillips screws and if you have factory AC the plastic duct going to the drivers side vent also has a screw and both have to come out.  If an automatic the shift indicator needs to be slid off the plastic and put out of the way, I tape it to the dash temporarily.  Then there are 2 15MM nuts that have to be removed for the column to drop down.  Unplug all the different  plugs.  You will have to give it a good tug then have to rotate the column so the shifter can come through the firewall.  If you are going from a non-tilt wheel to a tilt wheel column the long plug for the ignition wires is upside down and you have to turn the plug, you will see it.   

rotate the steering wheel so the nut on the bolt faces about 10 o'clock on your replacement column and put it in the same position.  On assembly go in the reverse order except the firewall flashing piece, get the under the hood u-bolt at the firewall put back and started because it won't go on if you button up inside the cab first...

I think that should be about it...  Be patient and expect to spend a couple 3 hours on it... It gets easier the more you do it...  I am up to about 5

[saxxman24@msn.com]

Thanks that should help a lot. I'm looking at used parts as there is no way I could afford new, so about what year range would interchange with my 76

[roundhouse]

They all interchange

Electrical plugs at bottom on some are reversed

If you're getting used
Get the entire Collum down to and including the rag joint

Some of the intermediate shafts are different
Get a tilt one
Much better than a non tilt

You will need a couple of inexpensive Tools to remove the steering wheel and ign switch if your replacement colum has crappy ones



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[fxrsrider]

Hey saxxman....when you do finally get that thing out....would you mind posting the factory length of the column?  I'm looking to replace mine too....but with an aftermarket column....they come in different lengths....and I would love mine to be shorter than stock ('75 C10)......I just don't know the stock length without pulling mine (which is my daily driver).

If any one else knows....that would be great too....

Thank you!  Let us know how that works out for you!