Topic: 78 - Steering Column disassembly
in Forum: C3 Handling Components
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The Villages, FL - USA
Joined: 8/14/2012
Posts: 40
Vette(s): 78 Black Coupe with Oyster interior and mirrored T tops
I have a horn problem and by all tests it appears the problem is in the steering column, I've disassembled the column to the point where I'm at the Lock Plate which is in front of the lower cancelling cam/horn contact. My question is how do I remove this Lock Plate? Everything up to this point seemed straight forward. Since I'm down to the turn signal/ignition area I don't want to screw anything up. It appears there might be a locking washer, but it doesn't seem to move (you can see my screw driver scratches). Has anyone done this before and make suggestions before I move any further?

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Overland Park, KS - USA
Joined: 7/9/2003
Posts: 916
Vette(s): 1973 Orange Metallic Coupe (orig owner), L82, 4 spd (WR), PS, (A/C & PW (I installed from wrecked 73)), leather, AM/FM Stereo, ran with '65 FI unit earlier & will again some day.
2023 Accelerate Yellow HTC Stingray
There is a spring behind the lock plate and a special tool is required that presses down the lock plate allowing you to remove the snap ring in the groove on the steering shaft. Then you can remove the lock plate. A factory service manual is an invaluable resource when doing jobs like this.
1973 L-82 4 spd

The Villages, FL - USA
Joined: 8/14/2012
Posts: 40
Vette(s): 78 Black Coupe with Oyster interior and mirrored T tops
Thanks, I figured it would be something like that. It's probably going to be fun finding the tool. I'll try a couple of shops around here that work on Vette's maybe they'll loan it to me. Thanks!
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Overland Park, KS - USA
Joined: 7/9/2003
Posts: 916
Vette(s): 1973 Orange Metallic Coupe (orig owner), L82, 4 spd (WR), PS, (A/C & PW (I installed from wrecked 73)), leather, AM/FM Stereo, ran with '65 FI unit earlier & will again some day.
2023 Accelerate Yellow HTC Stingray
It's a fairly common tool since most GM cars of that era required it. I think I got mine from JC Whitney a long time ago.
1973 L-82 4 spd

The Villages, FL - USA
Joined: 8/14/2012
Posts: 40
Vette(s): 78 Black Coupe with Oyster interior and mirrored T tops
Thanks 73Shark, I goggled it and it's all over the place. Thanks again for your help.
in Forum: C3 Handling Components
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