Steering column repair kit

[miwestlund]

I found a steering column repair kit at the T-Bird nest for my 65 Bird.
The description of the problems fits a few of mine. Mainly having to lift up the gear level when starting.
Question:
If I buy the kit. How difficult is that repair? Do I have to lift out the engine in order to find room to take the steering column out?

P.S
Since it's probably Harley answering this. The gauge worked perfect. Thanks again.

[dans65]

I also had a steering column issue, I bought the kit from Macs and i would guess they both came from the same supplier. I was lucky in that all that was bad on mine was the retainer around the upper bearing. I would be interested as well on the easiest way to change the lower one. We have another 65 that is showing the same symptoms.

[Harley Eaton]

The shift tube bearing (it's really a bushing) can be replaced, though not easily with the engine, the brake booster and the steering column in the car. Directions may be a little lengthy, but here: Start by removing a screw (may be a bolt) accessed through a hole in the shift collar close to the steering wheel. It's on the bottom and I think you will need the shift lever in neutral. Then remove the lever on the shift tube that activates the neutral start switch. Then, under the hood, slide the shift tube down toward the steering gearbox. Half to three quarters of an inch. You will find lots of slop here.
Now, cut the new rubber bearing/bushing through the locating nub. Now you can place the bearing/bushing around the shift tube and slid it up into the notch in the steering column jacket. Seat the bearing/bushing in the steering column jacket and slide the shift tube back to it's original position. Replace the neutral start switch lever and the bolt or screw you took out first. You are done. Some people will remove the LH hood hinge. Some will remove the brake booster. I've never needed to do this.
Harley ([email protected])

[TXTBIRD]

I'm new to this whole gig but am having fun so far. Regarding the shift lever issue, I have a '65 convertible that has to have the shift lever "manipulated" to get everything to line up for starting, running the top etc. Will installing the bushing set described here take care of those issues too?

Thanks,
Mark

[TXTBIRD]

Oh yeah, I am here in the DFW area so if any of you know of shops that are good with our cars, it would be a great back up for my meager skills.

Thanks,
Mark

[Harley Eaton]

Replacing the lower shift tube bearing will definitely help with the problem of manipulating the shift lever to start or operate the top. I have sent you a private message through the tbird forum, since you have requested no emails from readers.
Harley Eaton, Keller, TX (member North Texas Vintage Thunderbird Club)

[Captain Mike]

Originally Posted by TXTBIRD

Oh yeah, I am here in the DFW area so if any of you know of shops that are good with our cars, it would be a great back up for my meager skills.

Thanks,
Mark

Mark,

Get to know the guys in the local Tbird Club (www.ntvtbird.org). Since Harley retired and closed his "T-Bird Nest" repair and restoration shop a coupla years ago, the guys in the club are your best bet.

Good luck.

[Harley Eaton]

TXTBIRD--Where, specifically are you in the DFW area? [email protected]