Steering Column

Complete removal and replacement of the steering column assembly on a 1970 AMC Rebel Machine, including disconnection of electrical components, steering linkage, and column mounting hardware.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Steering column assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or compatible aftermarket
• Steering column mounting hardware kit × 1 — Column bracket bolts and nuts if corroded
• Steering shaft coupling × 1 — Replace if worn or damaged
• Turn signal switch (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Ignition lock cylinder (if replacing) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake firmly
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Disconnect negative battery cable and isolate terminal to prevent electrical contact
4. Position driver's seat fully rearward for maximum working space
5. Remove lower dash trim panels and knee bolster to access steering column mounting points
6. If equipped, remove any console or shift boot that may interfere with column access
7. Allow engine to cool completely if vehicle was recently operated

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove steering wheel
   Pry off the horn button or center cap from the steering wheel. Remove the steering wheel retaining nut (typically 15/16" or 1" socket). Mark the relationship between the steering wheel and steering shaft with tape or a marker for proper alignment during reinstallation. Use a proper steering wheel puller to remove the wheel - never strike the wheel or shaft as this can damage the collapsible column. Remove the wheel and set aside safely.
2. 2

   Disconnect turn signal and ignition switch wiring
   Locate all electrical connectors on the steering column including turn signal switch, ignition switch, and any neutral safety switch connectors. Tag each connector with tape and marker indicating its position. Disconnect all electrical connectors by releasing the locking tabs. On the 1970 Rebel Machine, the turn signal switch connector is typically behind the instrument panel. Remove the turn signal lever by unscrewing it counterclockwise.
3. 3

   Remove turn signal switch assembly
   Remove the screws securing the turn signal canceling cam. Remove the upper bearing spring if present. Remove the three screws holding the turn signal switch to the column housing (typically Phillips head). Carefully pull the turn signal switch wiring harness up through the column, noting the routing path. You may need to remove the wire harness from any clips or retainers. Set the switch assembly aside if reusing.
4. 4

   Remove ignition lock cylinder
   Insert the ignition key and turn to the ACC (accessory) position. Locate the lock cylinder retaining tab or pin - on AMC columns this is typically accessed through a small hole in the column housing near the lock face. Depress the retaining tab with a small punch or pin while pulling the lock cylinder out of the housing. If cylinder is seized, apply penetrating oil and wait before attempting removal.
5. 5

   Disconnect shift linkage (if column shift)
   If equipped with column-mounted shift lever, locate the shift linkage connection at the base of the column under the dash. Remove the clip or pin securing the shift rod to the column shift tube lever. Disconnect the shift indicator cable from the column housing if equipped. Mark the position of any adjustment points before disconnecting. Move the shift linkage aside to provide clearance for column removal.
6. 6

   Access and mark steering shaft coupling
   Move under the vehicle or access from inside the cabin where the steering shaft enters the firewall. Locate the steering shaft flexible coupling or rag joint that connects the column shaft to the steering gear input shaft. Mark the alignment relationship between the upper and lower shafts with paint or a punch mark. This ensures proper alignment during reinstallation and maintains steering wheel centerline.
7. 7

   Disconnect steering shaft coupling
   Remove the pinch bolt(s) securing the steering shaft coupling to the steering gear input shaft. On the 1970 Rebel Machine, this is typically a 1/2" or 9/16" bolt with a lock washer. If the coupling uses a clamp design, loosen the clamp bolts. Carefully separate the coupling halves. If stuck, apply penetrating oil and use gentle persuasion - never strike the steering shaft directly as this can damage the collapsible column.
8. 8

   Remove column mounting bracket fasteners
   Locate the steering column mounting bracket at the instrument panel support. The 1970 AMC Rebel typically uses two bolts securing a bracket to the underside of the dash structure. Support the column with one hand or have an assistant hold it. Remove the mounting bracket bolts (typically 1/2" or 9/16" heads). Note the position of any shims or spacers as these are critical for proper column alignment.
9. 9

   Remove firewall seal and lower column support
   Locate the rubber seal or boot where the steering column passes through the firewall. Pull this seal away from the firewall opening. If there is a lower column support bracket near the firewall or floor, remove its mounting fasteners. This bracket may secure the column to the toeboard area and typically uses 1/2" bolts or nuts.
10. 10

    Remove steering column assembly
    With all fasteners and connections removed, carefully guide the steering column assembly out of the vehicle. Typically this is done by pulling the column up and back into the cabin, then maneuvering it out through the driver's door. The column may need to be tilted or rotated to clear the dash opening and door frame. Have an assistant help guide the bottom shaft through the firewall opening. Inspect the removed column for damage, wear, or binding before deciding to reuse or replace.
11. 11

    Install replacement or refurbished column
    Guide the new or refurbished steering column into position, reversing the removal process. Feed the lower steering shaft through the firewall opening first, then position the upper column bracket to align with the dash mounting points. Ensure all wiring harnesses are routed correctly and not pinched or kinked. Install the firewall seal/boot onto the column before final positioning.
12. 12

    Install column mounting brackets and hardware
    Align the steering column upper mounting bracket with the dash support structure. Install any shims or spacers in their original positions. Install the mounting bracket bolts finger-tight initially. Install the lower column support bracket if equipped. With all mounting hardware installed finger-tight, check column alignment and adjust as needed before final tightening. Tighten all mounting bolts securely - typical torque is 15-25 ft-lbs but verify with factory specifications.
13. 13

    Connect steering shaft coupling
    Align the marks made during disassembly on the steering shaft coupling and steering gear input shaft. Slide the coupling together ensuring proper engagement. Install the coupling pinch bolt and tighten securely - typical torque is 20-30 ft-lbs. Verify there is no binding by rotating the steering shaft through its full range before proceeding. The shaft should turn smoothly without excessive play or tight spots.
14. 14

    Reinstall ignition lock, switches, and wiring
    Install the ignition lock cylinder by inserting it into the housing with the key in the ACC position until the retaining tab clicks into place. Remove the key and verify the lock operates correctly in all positions. Thread the turn signal switch wiring harness down through the column housing and install the switch with its three retaining screws. Reconnect all electrical connectors according to the tags made during disassembly. Install the turn signal lever. Reconnect shift linkage and indicator cable if applicable, ensuring proper adjustment.
15. 15

    Reinstall steering wheel and trim
    Position the steering wheel onto the steering shaft, aligning the marks made during disassembly to maintain proper spoke position. Install the steering wheel retaining nut and tighten securely - typical torque is 20-30 ft-lbs. Install the horn button or center cap. Reinstall all dash trim panels, knee bolster, and any console components removed for access. Reconnect the negative battery cable.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Verify steering wheel is centered when front wheels are pointed straight ahead
3. Check that all column-mounted controls (turn signals, ignition, shifter if applicable) operate smoothly without binding
4. Confirm all mounting hardware is tight and the column does not move excessively when force is applied
5. Verify shift linkage operates correctly through all gear positions if column-shift equipped

Verification

• Start the engine and verify ignition switch operates correctly in all positions (LOCK, OFF, ACC, ON, START)
• Test all turn signal and hazard functions to ensure proper operation
• Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock while stationary and verify smooth operation without binding, unusual noises, or excessive play
• Check steering wheel return-to-center after turning - it should return smoothly
• Test drive the vehicle in a safe area at low speed, verifying steering response is normal and the wheel is properly centered when driving straight
• Re-check all mounting bolts after test drive to ensure nothing has loosened
• Verify horn operation if equipped

More procedures for this vehicle