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How to reattach the upper steering column?

Tiny
LINCOLN20099
  • MEMBER
  • 2009 LINCOLN TOWN CAR
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 80,000 MILES
My upper steering column separated into two pieces. The Chilton manual doesn't cover how to put those pieces back together. There is a spline shaft, and it doesn't look like there is a keyway to make sure it goes back together properly. I am worried that if it doesn't go back together properly, that the steering wheel will be crooked when the wheels are straight ahead.
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Saturday, November 11th, 2023 AT 11:09 AM

6 Replies

Tiny
LINCOLN20099
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
Here are the two pieces that separated.
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Saturday, November 11th, 2023 AT 11:23 AM
Tiny
LINCOLN20099
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  • 6 POSTS
The end of one shaft.
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Saturday, November 11th, 2023 AT 11:23 AM
Tiny
LINCOLN20099
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  • 6 POSTS
Inside the column.
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Saturday, November 11th, 2023 AT 11:24 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,289 POSTS
Yep, there are no markings for this reassemble, your best bet is to reassemble the steering column enough to set it in the car while setting steering wheel is on the column. Then have the front tires straight, try to remove the shaft and make adjustments until the steering wheel is straight, you will have about 5 tries before you will get it right. I know, I know, not the way you wanted but when they assemble the columns when new they are in a jig so they can't be assembled incorrectly. If they are off slightly then will correct the error in the wheel alignment process.
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Saturday, November 11th, 2023 AT 3:20 PM
Tiny
LINCOLN20099
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
Do I just beat the parts together? It's very difficult to get the shaft to slide on.
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Sunday, November 12th, 2023 AT 9:58 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,289 POSTS
Tap is more the action you want, this the crumple part of the shaft so then the car is in an accident it will give some cushion for the driver.
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Monday, November 13th, 2023 AT 9:15 AM

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