Steering column Pivot pin

[Skippy969]

I have a 85 K1500 High Sierra. I had a loose steering wheel, so I went in and tightened the 4 bolts inside. When putting everything back together I cannot get the pivot pin to go back in and stay. It will go in until it's about 1/16-1/8 from flush, but it falls right back out when i move the wheel. I have searched all over and cannot find any suggestions on how to fix the problem.

Any information or suggestion will be helpful.

 

[Jgonick]

You need to tap it in until it is flush.
Use something like a brass punch and hammer, tap it in carefully.

 

[Skippy969]

Do I need a new column?

 

[Skippy969]

You need to tap it in until it is flush.
Use something like a brass punch and hammer, tap it in carefully.

I hit it all the way in and it pops right back out.

 

[Bennyt]

I hit it all the way in and it pops right back out.

Does it go in too easily? If the hole is too loose you can knurl the pin.

 

[Skippy969]

Does it go in too easily? If the hole is too loose you can knurl the pin.

I can push it it pretty easily. Would I need to put it on a lathe to knurl it or is there a different way?

 

[Bennyt]

I can push it it pretty easily. Would I need to put it on a lathe to knurl it or is there a different way?

Typically on a lathe, however I worked at a shop when I was a kid that had a rollers that went between a vise for threaded inserts and a special set-up for pistons.

I would bring the pin to a gunsmith and see if they can do it.

You might try putting the pin between 2 files on a vise. All you need to do is displaced the surface a little bit.

 

[Bennyt]

The other thing I am thinking is if you might end up needing a new column regardless, you could also jb weld it in.

I just don't want you to jeopardize yours or anyone's safety if anything were to fail.