Column Issues

[cv70chall]

Steering column has been reassembled and we reinstalled it, but ran into an issues with the coupler being about 2" away from the steering box splined shaft. We took it back out and were able to move the coupler about 1.5" closer. (When I reassembled the coupler, I set the shoe/spring assembly just about halfway into the coupler body, so there was some room to move it forward. We now sit about 1/2" shy of lining up the space where the pin will sit. I'm certain the column was not collapsed- as I took extra care to make sure the plastic pins didn't break. Is there a trick to nudge everything forward a bit further and what is the trick to tapping the coupler with a hammer from the back to get it (hopefully) to move into position so we can wrap this up?

 

[Katfish]

Was this column removed from same car?
Is the metal plate securely bolted to firewall, inside car?
If both are yes, it collasped
Should be able to easily slide the coupler by hand.

 

[cv70chall]

Was this column removed from same car?
Is the metal plate securely bolted to firewall, inside car?
If both are yes, it collasped
Should be able to easily slide the coupler by hand.

I'm certain I made totally sure I didn't break those tips and that it didn't collapse. We have it right up against the firewall, so I'm hoping/ praying it didn't collapse.

 

[cv70chall]

Was this column removed from same car?
Is the metal plate securely bolted to firewall, inside car?
If both are yes, it collasped
Should be able to easily slide the coupler by hand.

The coupler should slide over the spline section of the steering box easily?

 

[Katfish]

Yes, if everything is clean.
I've always been able to bottom it out by hand.
Maybe grease or paint inside?

 

[MILOJ]

did you slide the column forward before tightening down

 

[cv70chall]

All good. Turned out to be the splines were full of old grease buildup. Now, onto reassembling the wheel and wiring.
Thanks for the input!

 

[cv70chall]

Hi again... more issues I think.
Everything has been reassembled and I checked to make sure all the electrical was working ok. When I started the car, it started right up- but the ignition key seemed to "
rotate" backwards too far- causing the engine to stop.
If I hold the key in its forward position, it stays running.
What could I have missed? UGH

 

[Challenger RTA]

Might be the ign 1 and 2 are switched. If not I think you are going to have pull the steering wheel and can. I think something came loose inside.

 

[cv70chall]

What would cause the key to "spring back"? I didn't disconnect any internal wiring which makes this strange.

 

[cv70chall]

And what is the "easiest" way to remove the crush can without removing the column?

 

[Katfish]

Need a steering wheel puller (and long bolts) and it should "pop" off.
I replaced my turn signal switch in car.