loose steering column

[rileydog]

My 1969 Ranger has a 3/8" inch gap between the steering wheel and column. This prevents my horn and turn signal cams from working. If you press the entire column downward, the horn works as does the canceling cam. On the column shaft there is a clamp that i think i can loosen and push the staft down, tighten it and the 3/8" gap would disappear and possibly fix the problem. How much space should there be, if any at all between the steering wheel and column? Does anyone see a problem with me doing that or does my problem suggest something else?

1969 Ford Ranger 009 smaller.[attachment=0]php6Q0QNzPM.jpg

[Joshpow]

Seems like one of my ol trucks had same deal. think what youre talking bout to fix helped mine. i think most trucks have maybe 3/16 to 1/4 inch gap.

[fordman]

here is how to fix it. just adjust the column shaft and lower bearing retainer. http://www.fordification.com/forum/view ... rk#p397142

[Mach428]

Actually you won't be able to move the shaft as it is connected to the steering box, but you are on the right track. Loosen the clamps you mention and PULL the outer tube UP to the desired point. My truck has about a 1/1`6" gap between the steering wheel and the shift collar

[fordman]

yes you are so right. i dont know why i typed that. yo umove the outer column on the shaft. and readjust the bearing retainer to match .

[elgemcdlf]

Did you check your front cab mounts?

[cdeal28078]

I fixed mine by loosening the clamp in your bottom picture, just above the rag joint, just one bolt to loosen. I think it is a 1/2" but been years.. Loosen the bolt, have a helper press in on the steering wheel to close the gap and tighten up the bolt.
clint

[goldies67]

Did you check your front cab mounts?