[JSchmitz]

I pulled my steering column out of my '64 GTO. It's part of my current ever-increasing project on it. I think this may be a '67 column. Looks like one of the first safety columns. I'm cleaning it up and repainting it. The bottom bearing is wasted. Should I pull the whole thing apart and inspect it? Rewire it? Any advice on steering column restoration would be appreciated.

[Scott Thelander]

it looks like a 68 to me with the removeable lower intermediate shaft as 67 was a solid shaft steering wheel to the steering box
67 n 68's can interchange,,,,

[JSchmitz]

Originally Posted by Scott Thelander

it looks like a 68 to me with the removeable lower intermediate shaft as 67 was a solid shaft steering wheel to the steering box
67 n 68's can interchange,,,,

Ok. I have no idea on interchangeability. I figured it was a '67 because that was the start of safety features like flashers and collapsible columns, etc. Also thought that '64-'67 has a lot of common stuff. Are there numbers to look for on the column to ID it?

[Scott Thelander]

there may be somewhere ..
but
its a 68 column 1 year pontiac olds or buick a body ,,,, chevelle had a different collar at the dash

[JSchmitz]

Originally Posted by Scott Thelander

there may be somewhere ..
but
its a 68 column 1 year pontiac olds or buick a body ,,,, chevelle had a different collar at the dash

Ok. Thanks! I've had the car since 1985 and I'm still learning things about it. Lol!

Anyone know a good source for the bottom bearing? Maybe have a good used one? I might just machine a bushing for it.

[chrisp]

Definetly a 68 with early 64-67 levers Pontiac levers.

[JSchmitz]

Originally Posted by chrisp

Definetly a 68 with early 64-67 levers Pontiac levers.

I changed the levers out years ago. It did have the chrome and black levers.

[6d7gto]

Originally Posted by JSchmitz

Ok. I have no idea on interchangeability. I figured it was a '67 because that was the start of safety features like flashers and collapsible columns, etc. Also thought that '64-'67 has a lot of common stuff. Are there numbers to look for on the column to ID it?

There might be a Julian date code stamped near the bottom where the collapsible webbing ends. At least that's where my '67 floor shift column is stamped. Depends on when the production dates begin and end but that will give an idea of the year it was put into production. For example, mine is stamped 294 B 6 which is October 21, 1966. B must stand for second shift?

[6d7gto]

Originally Posted by JSchmitz

I pulled my steering column out of my '64 GTO. It's part of my current ever-increasing project on it. I think this may be a '67 column. Looks like one of the first safety columns. I'm cleaning it up and repainting it. The bottom bearing is wasted. Should I pull the whole thing apart and inspect it? Rewire it? Any advice on steering column restoration would be appreciated.

Can you email me? I'm in the middle of restoring one myself.

Robert
6d7gto@gmail.com

[6d7gto]

Originally Posted by JSchmitz

The bottom bearing is wasted. .

Here's an NOS bearing on Ebay:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/203019497787

You can also still buy an NOS plastic retainer for it. GM # 5698365. It's called an adapter and is different from the original rubber type retainer but works just as well. PartsPlace has a nice reproduction plastic retainer with the retaining clip. The NOS adapter doesn't come with a clip.

[JSchmitz]

It turns out that my bottom bearing was NOT wasted. I washed it thoroughly and packed it with marine grease. Feels fine now. Apparently the spring must hold the bearing clearance tight. Lack of understanding on my part at first. I have the column repainted. About ready to put it back together.