TH350 Column Shift - Excess Play

[76square]

The shift lever on my ’77 tilt steering column has got a lot of play moving from park through all of the gears. I would like to have the shift lever hit some positive detents and while it does lock into each gear position now, it’s sloppy. I’m looking for any advice on the various suspect components that typically contribute to this. Could this be slop in the transmission itself? Not sure where to start. Feedback much appreciated!

 

[Matt69olds]

A careful inspection is in order.

There are numerous bushing that could be worn or missing. You use to be able to find them at any decent parts store in the Help or dorman aisle. Unfortunately, since they haven’t been used in cars for 20 years, they will probably need to be ordered.

 

[76square]

Thanks for the response... are there bushings inside of the steering column that would require the complete disassembly of the column to replace?

 

[Rickf]

There are a lot of "GM steering column repair" videos on utube that I watched before I tackled mine.

 

[Matt69olds]

I’m sure there are wear points inside the column. But I’d be willing to bet the biggest source of the slop will be outside of the cab.

 

[Ricko1966]

Make sure the shift lever is tight on the transmission, seen more than one loose in my life.