Missing Blinker Handle & Maybe more??

Status
Not open for further replies.

Cuttlass78salon

Not-quite-so-new-guy
Mar 24, 2019
16
28
13
Michigan
As the title says when I purchased the car the previous owner had told me he was using a screw driver to operate the blinker as everything works except the actual lever is just not there. I have searched and searched but I can't find much referring to the actual lever just the blinker switch that's actually inside the column (tore it apart yesterday it's all there inside and works) but I need to know if I'm just missing a lever or if there's more I need. It's a tilt column in a '78 cutlass salon and I believe it may have been cruise control equipped because there's a wire coming out of the column where the blinker handle goes. (Trying to post pics but my phones being stupid.)
 

Cuttlass78salon

Not-quite-so-new-guy
Mar 24, 2019
16
28
13
Michigan
I had to switch over to chrome browser for some reason whatever lol
 

Attachments

  • received_316322492363589.jpeg
    received_316322492363589.jpeg
    626.7 KB · Views: 248
  • received_664956653941502.jpeg
    received_664956653941502.jpeg
    488.4 KB · Views: 249

81Regal

Royal Smart Person
Apr 5, 2009
1,562
486
83
Terril Iowa
The wires are for cruise control. The same lever also controls the dimmer switch. As bad as that collumn looks I would try to find another one with all the parts.
 
  • Agree
Reactions: 1 user

69hurstolds

Geezer
Supporting Member
Jan 2, 2006
8,089
17,298
113
Ermahgerd!!!!! What happened to your steering column housing! Total whack job there!

You MIGHT have some issue with the turn signal switch part where it fits in. The original lever has a push fit with an alignment tab. Just be prepared for some damage in there- maybe.

There's a reason he wasn't getting a new part. 1) They're discontinued. 2) If you find one, dig deep! Not cheap.

Found one on ebay though.

http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-5...0001&campid=5335822911&icep_item=132889888631

Might want to think about getting a kit for that housing. Looks horrible.
 
  • Like
Reactions: 1 user

O. D. Showtime

Comic Book Super Hero
Feb 6, 2009
3,007
3,527
113
Regina Sask. Canada
If you want to consider swapping in another column, I have access to a 78 Cutlass tan column shift tilt column. I'd have to check to make sure that it is tight and I believe it had cruise control but would also have to confirm.
 
  • Like
Reactions: 1 users

Cuttlass78salon

Not-quite-so-new-guy
Mar 24, 2019
16
28
13
Michigan
Yeah previous owner didn't take care of her at all and broke the bottom ring off the column to hook up the trans shifter I believe. Need to replace the wheel because I'm pretty sure he took it off with a hammer to the backside where that huge crack is because the other side is fine and the wheel isn't bent. Really just needs a lot of love a little epoxy and some touch up paint along with a new steering wheel. If the column does need totally replaced which I don't think is the case I believe I know a local guy that may have a couple complete ones.
 

Cuttlass78salon

Not-quite-so-new-guy
Mar 24, 2019
16
28
13
Michigan
My current job just cut my hours and let a bunch of people go *yikes* so I'm in the process of moving for a new job with more hours and better pay so I can funnel that cash into the car and assorted other things. If I do replace the entire column it will have to wait until I'm settled and have some more disposable income which is why I'm trying to find a bit cheaper fix for the time being than a column swap I'd love to be able to drive a bit without the fear of being pulled over immediately before a do something major like that where I know the car will be sitting undriveable for a while well I fumble around doing the swap with my limited knowledge and mechanical skills.
 

69hurstolds

Geezer
Supporting Member
Jan 2, 2006
8,089
17,298
113
It's ok to admit limited skills in a particular task. In fact, not admitting it has caused quite a lot of damaged car parts over the years. Don't ask me how I know. Nobody is fluent in everything. If they are, they're a freak of nature and probably needs to be in a Hall of Fame somewhere. But dicking around inside a steering column isn't difficult, but it does require a little finesse in a few spots. Like not overtorquing screws and knowing where and when to pry on something and when not to. Stuff like that. If you have a trusted friend nearby that actually knows how to do a particular task like mucking around inside a steering column, you'll be miles ahead. Or if you were to get a different steering column and replace the entire unit. That's WAY easier than rebuilding one.

Check YouTube videos for GM steering column disassembly to get an idea what you'd be getting into if you've never done this sort of work before.

Would never discourage anyone from gaining a new skill, but if it's your only mode of transportation I'd hesitate to tear into the column if it's your first time. Good luck with your new job and hopefully you'll be able to fix it soon.
 
  • Like
Reactions: 1 user

Cuttlass78salon

Not-quite-so-new-guy
Mar 24, 2019
16
28
13
Michigan
Thanks for the words of encouragement 69hurstolds, I've tracked down a handle to install for a little less than the one posted (still alot but what can ya do) but I don't have it in the budget this month for more parts so it will have to wait for May to come around. I did a tear down on the column after watching a bunch of videos and everything is there and in good condition internally but I am considering eventually doing a full column swap after I have the more important items done on the car like finishing the header panel and replacing some engine parts that have worn out from age.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.

GBodyForum is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Amazon, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

Please support GBodyForum Sponsors

Classic Truck Consoles Dixie Restoration Depot UMI Performance

Contact [email protected] for info on becoming a sponsor