Hello, so part of my plan in rebuilding my '89 involves swapping the non tilt steering column to a tilt version. I purchased a tilt column for cheap, but was wondering if anyone here has done this, and if the adjustment is worth the swap vs. just installing a smaller diameter steering wheel? Thanks for any advice.

 

I had tilt and when I got another car with the non-tilt I hated it!
I quickly sourced a tilt column and changed it out.
Smaller diameter wheels?..nah..they belong on dune-buggies and Civics.

 

The tilt column can/will get a large wheel off your thighs but it's main ergonomic advantage is placing the wheel at a good angle for your wrists and arms.
If you have power steering, a smaller wheel is feasible but if you're manual, the larger wheel is better.

 

K, but he's looking to find out how to swap it. I'm not sure enough, though.

All I know is you'll have to remove the steering wheel (remove horn pad held by screws from back, remove nut on center, then *use a puller*), then steering wheel surround (screws on bottom), then steering angle sensor (note the prongs on it that align with back of steering wheel). After that, I'm not sure what parts are changed. OP may want to know if the whole steering shaft needs to be changed or not.

I know a couple bolts or nuts hold a bracket on the steering shaft under the dashboard.

 

The whole column gets replaced, it's pretty self-explanatory how to do it.

 

I read that the columns are interchangeable, and was curious if there was a step by step. I was also curious if anyone knew how the adjustable column compared to the non adjustable. Mainly if it adjusted enough that an aftermarket steering wheel isn't needed for us tall folks. From what I've read the last few days, I might be ok swapping the steering wheel, but the column is en route...

 

i've never done it, but it actually looks very simple.

1. center steering wheel!
2. remove horn cover, loosen the 21mm nut that holds the wheel on, but dont remove. gently pull the wheel side to side, and it will pop loose, you keep the nut on so it doesn't hit you in the face.
3. remove the column covers, and all the switch gear. any broken parts can be glued with acrylic cement.
4. there are two bolts on the column that hold it to the dash, should be 12mm headed, loosen

5. open the hood, there are two U joints, loosen the top one. note the position, the u joints need to go back in the same phasing they came out of.
6. there must be some dust booty type thing on the inside where the column goes through the floor.
7. remove the dash to column bolts and pull...
8 install is reverse of removal...

 

Lol not all of us have taken apart 987969876 cars!

 

That's true but I'm kind of an idiot, so factor that in.