C3 Steering Problem

[Don Justham]

The steering on my 1970 with tilt and telescopic is loose in the column section inside the car. The most play is in the 9-3 direction. It has nothing to do with turning the wheel it just has a lot of play moving the wheel back and forth. Im concerned with dismantling it because Im not sure what is involved. Is this something that I can tackle myself or should I take it to someone? Thanks

[Joe L.]

Re: C3 Steering Problem

Don-----

DEFINITELY send the column to someone who knows what they're doing. Getting into these tilt-tele columns can be a "nightmare extraordinaire". Corvette Steering Service is one firm that has a great reputation for rebuilding these and having most of the parts usually needed (virtually all of which are GM-discontinued). Dial them up on the web at www.corvettesteering.com.

[Larry Clain]

Re: C3 Steering Problem

I have repaired many of these and if you are a good mechanic with the right pullers and tools you will find that it is usually just the bolts on the "Ujoint" (not sure what the correct name is) have come loose from pulling down on the wheel when you get into the car. BTW:I have done this without removing the collum which can be a chore. Back in the late '70's, I tightened up many of them on used Vette's on my Corvette sales lot and never had a problem.

Also I will say that sometimes there is also a roller bearing race that is bad and needs to be replaced.

I don't know your skill level so get a serv manual and read up on it. Email me if you have a specific question.