[trees]

Hey gang, the latest project in the shop is a 56 Thunderbird. This is more of a restoration than hotrod, but knowing there is a lot of expertise on this board, I bring my problem. We need to remove the dash and to get it out, we have to drop the steering column. There are 4 small screws that need to be removed, but the collar around the tube is blocking it. My question is, how do you go about removing the collars from the steering wheel to the dash???? We do not have a manual, but do have the parts detail that shows alll the parts.

Trees

[WoodsEdge]

Trees, the only thing my book has is how to remove the steering gear, but this should do what you want. I'll copy and you can see if it helps.
To remove the steering gear, disconnect the wires at the bottom of the steering gear housing. Loosen the lower steering column clamp, them remove the two screws from the upper steering column bracket.
Remove the horn ring from the steering wheel. Remove the upper steering column, upper steering shaft, and steering wheel as an assembly from the car.
The rest is pulling the steering box. Hope you can under stand this. I can e-mail you a picture of the whole assembly if you need it.
Jack

[trees]

Jack, that sounds good. We thought we may have to pull the upper shaft, wheel and all but were not sure. I would appreciate the picture!!

Trees

[WoodsEdge]

Trees, I sent you the picture but after reading I'm not sure if its for the Bird or Ford. Hope they are simular and it will help.
Sorry about the first picture, picked the wrong one. Thats a 36 Adler I'm thinking of making a hot rod out of, like I don't have enough projects.
Jack

[trees]

Jack, received both, printed out and have at the shop. Will help!!

Thanks

Trees

[boomer]

Those early T-Birds have a adjustable column. If you turn the knurled looking part of the column,the steering wheel can be pulled toward the driver. ( don't remember if it is cw or ccw).And you can easily get to the screws.

[trees]

Thanks, Boomer. That makes sense and explains the big chrome section. We are on hold right now, fixing up the old barn to store some of our toys. Getting a little old for putting in ceiling panels and doing concrete work!!

Trees