Well no luck finding the inner column to replace. I may go with an ididit column and if I do that then it looks like I am on my way to a resto mod 55. I do want to retain as much originality as possible.

edited to add: Will a 1955 Nomad steering column work on a 1955 Belair both automatic? Its a convertible, but I doubt that will matter. Thanks.

 

The only repair is to replace it, by making another and welding it back on. Otherwise you have a 2 legged stool trying to balance on only 2 legs. Never going to happen.

That would be the easy fix. The other is to locate another mast jacket(thats the outside tube) and replace the one you have with a good used one.

Stick shift tubs are different from the automatic. 55-6 are the same, 57 is one year only.

Mikey

 

Well I figured it out after reading and looking at a ton of photos. The bottom tab that is part of the steering column is gone. There are only two tabs so the locking plate wont hold the sleeve in place. Anyone know if you have to replace the steering column with the tabs or if there is an option to repair it? Thanks.

 

Here's a couple of pics.....not sure if this is what you are looking for or not.

 

See if this diagram helps:

Terry

 

Hi I have the same issue with my steering column and I still cant figure it out. Is the three prong part you are referring the locking plate 3713031 in the diagram listed? I have taken the collar apart twice and it still turns. I looks like a small metal piece on the column could be missing. I can see the slots that the collar fits in and when I turn it clockwise it locks, but when I turn the signal down it spins the collar. Now the darn horn honks when the car is in Neutral. I made it worse ugh. Does anyone have a picture or can your please refer to the part number for me? Thanks.

Oops forgot to say its a 55.

 

Thanks Don. I may not be able to accomplish that, but you've made it clear that the problem is with that missing tab. I'll see what I can do to try and lock that ring in place. John

 

Don, yes, one of teh tabs, the bottom one, is broken. I'm sure that's contributing, but even if it was present, the housing could still slip in the same direction. Does that one missing contact point explain it all? The other two are screwed tight, but it's just so easy to move. I figured that even with the 3rd tab in place, I'd still have the problem. John

 

one of teh tabs, the bottom one, is broken. Does that one missing contact point explain it all?

Yes, I've had 1 broken tab keep it from locking down. You might try putting a spacer between the locking ring and the turn signal switch houseing, the thickness of the tabs. This will allow you to tighten all three screws without cocking the locking ring. A small 1/4" tube could be cut the length of the tabs to keep the ring even when it's tightened.

 

When I tighten the 3 screws that attach my signal housing to the column, via that 3 pronged do-hickey, it doesn't prevent the turn signal housing from slipping in one direction, ie counter clockwise.

The 3 pronged do-hickey clamps the turn signal houseing down on the top of the column and prevents any movement in any direction. The 3 prong do-hickey goes in the notches in the top of the column and is turned to go under the ears. Are any of the 3 ears broken, preventing the locking ring from tightening down? http://www.trifive.com/garage/55%20Chevy%20Assembly%20Manual/7-3.gif