Disassembling a '55 steering column

[tchristian]

Does anyone out there know how to disassemble a steering column for a '55? I'm trying to remove the two pieces with arrows pointing to them. I'm guessing the part that the turn indicator mounts to will require a bearing puller, but I have no idea about the decorative collar.

 

[tbird5866]

Decorative collar ? Do you mean the locking collar for the telescoping steering wheel? If so, these is a screw to prevent unscrewing to accidentally. With the screw removed, just unscrew the collar. Do you have a hop manual??

 

[tchristian]

I didn't even realize it was a telescoping mechanism. I don't think there is a screw visible anywhere, and I'm not sure how you would engage and disengage the telescope. The collar just sits there. It doesn't twist or slide. I've shot WD40 to loosen it. The best I could figure is it was decoration.

Anyway, do yo know how to loosen it? I'd like to rechrome it.

I do have a shop manual, but the diagram that they have is for a generic Ford, not the T-Bird specifically.

 

[tbird5866]

I've used a strap wrench on the really tough ones....

 

[DreemKiller]

Early Bird Magazine

FYI: There's an article on this in the latest issue of the Early Bird magazine.