Hey Guys,

I rebuilt my steering column and rebuilt the coupling components. I got the steering coupler retainer on tight. However, in the process of trying to seat the coupler all the way down on the steering shaft the retainer has come loose. I remember seeing some coupler that had clips to help prevent this. Question is, what should I do? Pull the column all the way back out and redo it or should I use the retainer clips? I feel like I need to pull the whole thing out and redo it unless there is another way.

Thanks, Joe

those clips are no longer made and are impossible to find. you best bet is to try it again. good luck cause they are annoying and never stay on!

Pull the column back out. I use a punch and hammer with something appropriate under the coupler to support it. Alternate around the retainer tabs with the punch till it's tight and secure. Trying to crimp it with pliers is a waste of time.

I can clamp that lid back on with a good size pair of channel locks. I sure as hell wouldn't pull back out just for that.

I've never had good luck doing it on the car. I take the column out, stand it on the steering wheel, put 2 medium size c-clamps, one on each side so they compress the retainer/seal against the coupler, then bend the tangs over with channel locks. Only way I've gotten the retainer to stay put.

I did use a punch when I did it, out of the car and it seemed pretty secure. However, I may have distorted it without knowing it. Since you can't get the spring any longer, I'll pull it out and re do it. I may reuse the original retainer. It looked like it might be better than the one that came with the kit.

Thanks for the advice everyone. Joe