The '89 I recently purchased has "a broken tilt bar" as I was told by the previous owner. He said he was quoted $150 to fix the problem... I'm assuming that was to replace the entire steering column. The entire column moves up and down like it would with the tilt lever arm (little one behind the wiper arm) pulled forward, so it seems logical that the "tilt bar" is broken.

My steering wheel itself is secure...

Is this a matter of tightening some screws?

If it is the Four Inverse torx screws (E8) that just need tightening.. this Tech Article is the one for me right?

https://www.thirdgen.org/newdesign/t...ngcolumn.shtml

If not, is it possible to replace the bar, or do I really need to replace the entire column?

Also, this column has the PASS ignition key... can I replace this column with a steering column from an earlier model thirdgen without that feature? I'm thinking that would make the cars a little too easy to steal but you never know..

James

Pictures:

 

You'll probably have to disassemble the column to be sure of the cause. It is possible that the four screws holding the upper column in place are loose, or that you have other problems.

You could get a column from another car and replace yours, or possibly use parts from it to repair your column. The cracks in the lower bowl cover are going to be a problem, requiring a lot of disassembly. That trim is usually bonded to the outer column tube.

Maybe this would help: