steering column swap
08-18-2005, 09:26 AM
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steering column swap I think this would be the right place to post this. Anyway I'm about to change out my steering column because of internal wiring problems in the one I have now. I figured it would be a lot cheaper to just buy a used column than try to rewire and replace switches in the old one. Anybody ever done this or maybe can point me to a website with some insight on doing this? 
08-18-2005, 03:28 PM
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Its really easy. There are 3 bolts on the fire wall, two bolts going vertical right about where the column goes under the dash, one bolt under the hood holding the steering shaft on, and finally all the electrical connectors to unclip at the base of the column.
http://shbox.com/1/drawings_exploded_views.html has some exploded views that might help. #6 is the steering column.
http://shbox.com/1/drawings_exploded_views.html has some exploded views that might help. #6 is the steering column.
08-23-2005, 09:23 AM
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Thanks for the info. One more question. The column I bought came with the ignition key also. When I change out the column will I be able to use the "new" key that is in the ignition or do I need to change the igntion from the original column to the "new" column?
08-23-2005, 02:56 PM
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If you do not change the column over to accept your old key, you will have to splice a resistor in the line that goes to the vats. Or else it wont start. Its really easy, you just use your multimeter and measure the resistance going across the chip in the key. Then go to radio shack and buy a resistor of the same resistance. I have a diagram i can post up that shows where to put it. I will see if i can find it and post it up later.
08-24-2005, 09:41 AM
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Here it is. You might have to remove the resistor from the new key that way it doesnt read 2 different resistances. Im not sure on this but it may happen. Hope this helps.
08-26-2005, 09:22 AM
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I really don't like messing with wiring, so I've been thinking of other ways to get around having to wire in a resistor. Is it possible that I could get a key blank with the same resistance as the key I have in the ignition now and have it cut to match the key in the new ignition?
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08-26-2005, 02:34 PM
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Im not really sure about that. You could call the dealer and ask them. But i know they cut the key using your vin. Wiring in the resistor would be really simple and cost a ton less then getting new keys cut.
09-05-2005, 09:24 AM
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Done. I did it yesterday in about 8 hours. I swapped the key cylinder from my original column to the new column. The only thing that didn't match was the air bag connections on top and under the dash, so I just cut the ones off the old column and spliced them onto the new one. No problems. Everything works. Boy it's great to have cruise control again!!!! Thanks a lot for all your help.
