Hi guys,

I just replaced my ignition switch. To do so, I removed the steering column bolts (2 bolts in back and 2 nuts toward the steering wheel). I am having one hell of a time getting the back bolts to go back into their threaded holes.

When I attempt to move the steering column back into place, the nuts by the steering wheel go back on, but there is a large gap between the plates in back and i can't get the bolts to thread. Any suggestions? I've never done this before.

 

Are you talking about the steering column surround (the plastic around the column)?

 

I meant the bolts that hold the whole steering wheel assembly into place, not the plastic parts... like the steering wheel was sitting on my seat because I had removed the 4 bolts that hold it up.

Two of those bolts (the ones in back) center the steering shaft and they are quite difficult to get back in.

 

It sounds like your not getting the back into its slot, There is a tab that points forward between the two threaded parts for the bolts,, The steering collumn must be tilted and inserted above that tab, Then tilt the nut side (wheel side) up and put a nut on to hold it up for you to put the bolts in.
If you cannot tilt it back in undo one of the shaft U-joints for extra slack.