1983 Chevrolet Forward Control 4.8 T, StandardFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

"G" & "P" Models Standard Column: Disassembly

  1. Remove steering wheel nut and flat washer, then slide steering shaft assembly out of lower end of column. Remove lower bearing spring and clamp from steering shaft ("G" models) or from steering column ("P" models). Remove back-up lamp switch.
  2. Drive out shift lever pin (except floor shift models) and remove shift lever. Remove directional switch canceling cam and switch lever. Remove column wiring harness cover.
  3. Remove directional signal switch screws. Rotate directional signal switch housing counterclockwise and remove housing from column. Remove plastic thrust washer assembly and then remove shift lever housing (or extension housing if floor shift) from column.
  4. Housing and switch cannot be fully removed from column until shift lever housing is removed. Separate directional signal switch, switch control support assembly, directional signal housing and shift lever housing (or extension housing) assemblies.
  5. Press steering shaft upper bearing out of switch contact support. Remove shift lever housing (or extension housing) seal and bushing from upper end of column.
  6. Remove bolt and screws from adjusting ring clamp and remove clamp, adjusting ring, and lower bearing. Press lower bearing out of adjusting ring. On 3 speed columns, remove "1st-Reverse" shift lever and lever spacer.
  7. On automatic transmission columns, remove selector plate clamping ring screws. On all models, place column upright on floor, supporting it with 2 pieces of wood.
  8. Place a block of wood on upper end of shift tube. Press down on shift lever with foot while tapping on wood block to withdraw tube from column jacket. If removal is difficult, use a press.
  9. Remove felt seal from shift tube. Remove firewall clamp, floor pan seal and dash seals from jacket. Inspect parts for excessive wear, rust or corrosion.
Fig 1: View of Steering Column Assembly for "G" & "P" Models
G31160
Factory Service Tools

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Shop Manual-Ready ToolsCompare Repair QuoteQuote Shield Pro

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

Rather have a pro handle this?

A certified mobile mechanic comes to your home or office. They bring the tools, you stay comfortable. No tow truck, no waiting room, no surprises.

Comes to youSame-day available12-month warranty
Get a Free Quote

No obligation. See pricing before you book.