Loose steering column/ How to remove lock ring?

[Chris Taylor]

I am working on a loose steering column. I have the steering wheel off and compressed the spring to remove the lock ring but can't get it off. I know it is simple but I am going to quit for now and see what you guys think.

Then I need to see why the column is loose.

 

[tc86gn]

I take it that you mean that you have compressed the shaft locking plate that will compress the spring. If so, compress it till the retaining ring is fully exposed, then work it with a small screwdriver or a scribe or awl. If it is still there, use a pair of flat nosed snapring pliers to expand it.

 

[Chris Taylor]

Sorry to be so vague on the topic. I was in a hurry. I did compress the locking plate and expose the lock ring. I have tried the awl and screwdriver. My snap ring pliers are ID and OD but don't have a flat nose. I may see if I can modify a set. I don't remember the lock ring being this tough whin I changed the ignition switch in my late model GM truck.

The owner of the GN has been pulling on the wheel to get out of the car. That is why the tilt is loose. How can fix it?

 

[tc86gn]

sounds like you need to get something to cut this out like a good pair of sidecutters or even a dremel or cut off air tool w/a worn disc so it is small enough to get in there. Sounds like the bearings or races are faulty. You will probably need to go in at least to this point and make a good inspection of everything else while you are in there. This is a good time to take care of any other worn parts like maybe a slightly worn rack and rod ignition actuator or any other small problems. Just go into this once. Hard to say for sure what it is until you get there but more than likely a faulty race. Only solution for this is getting the bearing kit from GM.

 

[Joe 1320]

Using the compression tool, make sure you compress the plate just enough(perhaps only 1/16") to allow you to still use the plate as leverage. Use a pick to pry up one end of the lock ring out of it's groove. Release the tension of the plate and continue to pry the lock ring out of it's groove by prying around the edge. Releasing the tension on the plate after you get the end of the ring out of the groove helps keep the lock ring from slipping back into the groove. At this point it's almost like using a can opener. It's hard to describe without pictures. sorry, I'm not gonna take mine apart again just to snap photos. I do recognize it being a PITA.

 

[topfuel]

loose steering column

I've had good luck using a hook or a right angle pick like Joe1320
described, working at the split area of the ring. Try to weasel the
pick underneath one end of the ring then work it around.
If the play you have is actually in the tilt part of the column,
you'll probably need to retighten the 4 bolts deep in the column.
I did this a long time ago and do remember the bolts are kinda
difficult to get at with a socket, a 1/4 drive swivel socket would
help a bunch to get in the tight area.

 

[Chris Taylor]

I don't know why this one is a PITA. I have been in several GM columns and never had a problem with a lock ring.

Thanks,
CT