I posted a few weeks ago on a problem with my '92 TC: the key wouldn't turn back the final notch, so I couldn't take it out of the ignition. After some delays caused by roofing and plumbing projects, I decided I needed to remove the steering column. Once out, it took 5 minutes to find the problem. There are two nylon split cylindrical bushings that sit between the shift tube and the caps that hold it into place. Many years ago, they had flanges or shoulders at each end, to hold them in place. Time takes its toll, and both had sheared off one flange and slipped out of place, still on the shift tube, but away from the caps. The lower on had slipped up, which prevented the shift lock mechanism from engaging, and preventing the key from hitting its final lock position. I put them into place, reversing the lower one so the remaining flange could keep it from slipping up the tube again. I put a zip-tie below the upper one, hoping to keep it in place better.
I have photos, if anyone wants a better explanation, but I'd need instructions on how to post the images (jpeg)
October 20th, 2003, 08:01 PM
