Steering Column Moves, Key On Issues, Need To Tilt Column Up??

[GNVYUS 1]

Well before I go swapping out everything, is this normal, I don't recall this....

Key on will need for me to move the steering column up and to the left, then the key will turn on. WTH

It's like the old column shifter is sloppy. LOL

What's out there for us that's a fix, tight and stops the need to tilt the column up?

Thanks

 

[BEATAV8]

Very common for the screws at the base of the tilt column to get loose on G body cars. Do you think that’s what you have going on? It can get so bad you’d think the column was gonna come apart

 

[Grumpy]

Typical GM column. Easy fix.

 

[GNVYUS 1]

Thanks guys, I dropped the panels and here's what I see, the big 4 bolts were really tight.

I don't see where the big gray column piece has any bolts to tighten. I had to bail 3 minutes in and get to a recording session but I'm posting now in case anyone replies back by the time I'm done.

Oh ya, there was black tape from big gray column to main column which is now snapped so I bet someone added that to stop this.

Pics included for future reference

 

['87 Turbo "T"]

Thanks guys, I dropped the panels and here's what I see, the big 4 bolts were really tight.

I don't see where the big gray column piece has any bolts to tighten. I had to bail 3 minutes in and get to a recording session but I'm posting now in case anyone replies back by the time I'm done.

Oh ya, there was black tape from big gray column to main column which is now snapped so I bet someone added that to stop this.

Pics included for future reference

If I recall correctly it's not the 4 bolts at the base of the column(Assuming you have tilt). There's disassembly of the column to get to the fasteners. Then they should be tightened & Loctited.

Hopefully this will help.

How To: Fix Loose Tilt Steering Column PIC HEAVY **NOW WITH VIDEO**

Fix your loose Tilt Column in your G-Body! I’ve included steps that a more experienced mechanic could probably skip, but this is for everyone. Here’s the tools you’ll need. (I think I got them all) Steering Wheel Pivot Pin Remover (get the Lisle 19940 tool)...

gbodyforum.com

 

[GNVYUS 1]

Thanks for the video and link, damn bolts are deeper in there that I would've thought, I was hoping it was bolts on the outside. I see now why there was tape on the outside between the two sections. Hahaha

Grumpy, you're funny, easy fix, there was a list of tools and steps that seem like 30+ minutes even if you have everything and know what's up. LOL
You're the guy at the gym warming up with 350lbs on the squat rack just getting your legs ready for the real show later at 750lbs. Easy warm up, for you. LOL

 

[wdxwrx]

There are definitely a few special tools that are needed to do the job.
Is it possible to do it without them?
Yes.
But it's a LOT harder and the chances of ruining something are high.
Buy or borrow the correct tools. If not, have someone with them do it.

 

[BEATAV8]

Mike we have the tools at the farm for taking it all apart to get at those screws. Doesn’t explain what’s up with your ignition switch but it’s most likely related.
Wires in tilt columns tend to break over the decades due to bending each time the tilt is used.

 

[Chuck Leeper]

Once tightened up, the N/S switch and/or the link rod to the trans may have to be adjusted.

 

[Grumpy]

Grumpy, you're funny, easy fix, there was a list of tools and steps that seem like 30+ minutes even if you have everything and know what's up. LOL

Did a lot of GM's in the late 70's/80's. Rebuilt a lot of theft cars back then . How long would it take me now after 40 years ?? Prob 10 min ! Drop it off to Russ to fix ... Done

 

[salvageV6]

Otto in CT did mine in 2004 I believe, $50 took him a half hour but he changed the cylinder lock which I had from a used column I bought with keys. I'd pay someone to do it for sure and you may need a new IGN switch. Just my .02 on a successful stress free repair, use an expert.

 

[chris romani]

When I was 19 my Monte Carlo SS kept having this problem when I bought the Buick I was glad it wasn’t a tilt column.I was a kid and brought to the Chevy dealer to have it fixed I believe 3 times.

 

[GNVYUS 1]

I'll cruise by the farm and do it with the eyes of the guys, this way of when I go home and the wheel comes off in my hands this threads proof my people need to contact Buick for a payout.
$19.87 is about what they can afford these days. LOL

BTW, Buick doesn't even offer a sedan anymore, all SUVs I guess, market has changed.