Jeep CJ7 Steering Column Complete Teardown

[@theonlymadmac4771]

I completely overhauled my uncle’s Jeep CJ 7 in 1979, which took only 3 Bavarian winters to corrode to junk. Gives me nice recollections 😊

[@calihildebrandt8237]

Thank you for making a video that really dumbs it down for the folks, like me, who know nothing about vehicles, but purchased a ‘78 CJ5 and want to restore!

[@coolguy_CJ7]

I did the exact same thing. Bought an 84 CJ7 with no knowledge. Learned about everything I could and found not many people had much to offer. So I figured it out myself. And made videos :)

[@jeffm1000]

Man I gotta tell you I've done a lot of work to my 80 CJ5 and your videos have helped enormously. I appreciate you posing all this knowledge!

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Glad to hear it helps. That's all I wanted to accomplish. :)

[@tednelson7029]

Cool Guy, you absolutely rock! Needed to get to my horn relay switch and your steering wheel tear down video was just perfect. This is the second time you came to my rescue (rear tire carrier assembly). My ‘76 CJ7 and I just cannot thank you enough, but we certainly do thank you.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Glad to be of service :)

[@Pickichvino]

Hey man, I really appreciate all of your videos. This one helped me fix my busted turn signal and horn button assembly. You made this so easy. Thank you!

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Well that makes me happy that I was able to help.

[@johng1902]

OUTSTANDING VIDEO, voicing, and photography. Thank you!

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Glad to help.

[@usmilitarytags194]

This video was really helpful. It made me feel like an idiot when I realized I was trying to put new ignition switch on upside down. Thanks man.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

We’ve all been there in one way or another when working on a CJ. :)

[@2091Ted]

Cool Guy saves the day - again! Thanks for all your videos!

[@jamessampson4677]

Thanks for your great videos as I have recently acquired a 78 cj5 and a 79 cj7 that need lots of help. Have ridden in jeeps but never worked on any. Will have my hands full I can see. Videos that have detail in them are terrific to the unschooled such as myself.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Gotta start somewhere, right?

[@jonmcguire228]

Perhaps worth mentioning you can remove and replace the lock cylinder without removing the plastic turn signal cam. There's a slot in the cam that lines up with the hole for that tab. Good video, I'm cobbling together one good column from several that were supposedly "complete" (roll eyes). Insane what a new column goes for...

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Good mention. I wanted to show how to completely breakdown the column and all the pieces.

[@bspan5380]

I have a 85 CJ-8 Scrambler. In putting an aftermarket steering wheel, I found the horn tube was at the 7:00 position with wheels straight. It is supposed to be at either the 11 or 1:00 position. Any idea what to do here? Or how I rotate to the proper position?

[@frankn4618]

I just change out my turn signal switch, I got it apart a couple of times and forgot to put a part in and could not recall where it it was the horn contact plate .... Thanks for the video remind me exactly where it went before I pulled apart the whole column

[@coolguy_CJ7]

It’s always fun to put something back together and have something left over. :) glad the video helped.

[@tonykop50]

Hey Cool Guy, Just wanted to reach out to you, and to thank you on all the time and effort on putting all these video's together for us! I have a 1983 CJ7 that a bought from dealer brand new back when I was a pup. I still have it today. Restored the Jeep 2 years ago myself enjoying it now as I did then. Looking new again like it came from the show room from back then. I really enjoy reviewing your video's, great work. I wished I did a little more with filming back then for myself as you did. Jeep on!

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Super cool story. Wish I was aware enough back then to have grabbed one of these. I enjoy my first restoration everyday. Such a great thing to have.

[@davesaam4308]

Excellent tutorial, I'm working on my 76 CJ5 column right now and following your tutorial. Thanks

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Excllent. Reach out with any questions.

[@fleonard4]

Thanks! But made up my mind after watching. I'm going to put in a start button. I just need to select which one...

[@winnebagus4476]

Excellent work and documentation.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Hopefully it helped.

[@challengercj796]

Thank you for all of your videos. They help(ed) me so much!

[@timbreedlove6092]

thanks cool guy, as always a beacon of light in the dark dim world of a CJ rebuild. I've been putting off the column teardown due to, well lack of courage. Thanks for the help

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Take heart! You can do it you brave soul you. :)

[@beamdavid]

Cool Guy, by far your best video. Thanks so much for sharing. This was immensely helpful

[@coolguy_CJ7]

The first iteration was such a disappointment because of the hack job done by the PO. This one made me feel better. Glad it helped.

[@zanzibarbusiness]

That little backplate with 4 screws under the cylinder! On reassemble what do those 4 screws screw into...?🤔

[@ReeksTTR]

I need to replace the whole ignition system in the steering column because the only way to start my CJ7 is to pull the rod towards me and I’m tired of it I just can’t find all the parts and I need help

[@christopherpucci5036]

Awesome video, I have a YJ with a non tilt I’m pretty sure is the same column, great video, thanks!!

[@coolguy_CJ7]

NP. Happy to help. I think the YJ was the same till around 97 or so.

[@leshovland8685]

Hi Cool Guy, nice video.. I'm having trouble aligning the switch, fiber gear and aluminum slide so the steering wheel lock engages / disengages properly.. Any tips? Thanks

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Email me at [e-mail] with picts.

[@ralphnabozny8494]

Thank you. mine is 1992 cant make wipers shut off.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Did this video help solve your issue?

[@neilmcshane7850]

Cool Guy .... I'm closer to having my 1981 CJ7 running. I just need to either clean or replace my turn signal & replace my lock cylinder .... Can I do all of this with the steering column installed? The old top tore from snow packs and water/rust seeped into it. Thanks again for your videos .... Huge help.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

You will be able to replace all of that with it still installed. If you were replacing the bearings, that would be a different story.

[@neilmcshane7850]

@@coolguy_CJ7 Thanks again ..... Almost finished with brake & fuel lines ..... electrical is next up.

[@raditian2]

Regarding ignition switch white plug blue wire and red/white 10 on 1983 Cj-7: Does the 16/18 gauge blue wire strictly for cranking only? It seems to ties in to the white wire through the 2 plug connector on the I.C.M. It only gets power when I try to CRANK the jeep (start position), other whys there is no power . While in IDLE (run position) does the 10 gauge red/ white takes over ? . It ties into the ignition module as well through the 2 plug . Is that for idle only ?

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Yes to all the above. You’re assessment is correct.

[@deanpuzon9628]

Specifically the white nylon pivot joint for the tilt portion

[@coolguy_CJ7]

For the turn signal cam, I used dielectric grease. Superlube from Harbor Freight to be specific.

[@scottfarquharson5362]

The collar between my steering wheel and steering column, the 3 bolt holes broke. Can’t seem to find a new one. Is there a specific name for it? Thanks for the help.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Facebook market place can be your friend for these type of finds. There is also a few eBay sellers that carry aftermarket versions. Let me see what I can find and report back.

[@levifurney8661]

Do you know a good source for the rack and Sector gear? The gears you have in your pulling at 22:27 in the video and When I pulled my jeep ignition switch I didn't have the slot opened up on mine it was a virgin and never been popped before I did it so it's rare but it can happen in that case you need a flathead just as wide as the hole and tap it through with a hammer really lightly this is a great video though you do awesome with the camera

[@coolguy_CJ7]

This should do the trick: www.summitracing.com/parts/rnb-83221?seid=srese1&gclid=CjwKCAiA25v_BRBNEiwAZb4-ZeaH_TNOWCdvvjrDu89r4JVgJNhC8itLQCsobeeWDqCtYTGA4woIjhoCvFIQAvD_BwE

[@levifurney8661]

@@coolguy_CJ7 thank you

[@timothymurray134]

Just in case that one doesn’t work if you google ignition gear for ‘79 El Camino the correct one should pop up. I had to replace mine a few years ago and I couldn’t find the correct part for anything when I tried looking for ‘84 CJ7. Finally found it when someone on a forum said that AMC stood for All Makes Combined and suggested the El Camino search. Good luck!!

[@OzzieBenoit]

Thanks for the videos! I just swapped out my column shifter automatic steering column for a manual tilt column and my lights and horn aren't functioning correctly. Is there a difference in the column wiring? Ozzie 1976 CJ7 304v8 automatic.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

The column wire harness is different. The harness that connects to the column harness is not. Email me at [e-mail] and I’ll send you a wire diagram the should help.

[@AbstonsGarage]

Thanks for all your videos.. I am working on this now on my 84 CJ7... The blinker is not reseting or turning off after turning the wheel. From what I understand it is the same plastic part that has the horn spring.. Is that correct?

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Correct. It’s the turn signal switch with all the wiring. My bet is that the plastic has cracked and flex’s but won’t reset.

[@AbstonsGarage]

@@coolguy_CJ7 what is the part number for the other white plastic part? Since I am in there might as well replace it as well.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

@@AbstonsGarage send me a photo at [e-mail] so that I know what part specifically.

[@bweyde2]

Hey cool guy I’m interested in the horn mechanism and emergency flashers. My PO has wired up something underneath for horn (video game style button), but I would love to repair this. I’m also not sure I have a factory column as I don’t see a knob underneath the ignition. 85 CJ7 w/ 4spd manual

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Email me at [e-mail] and we can figure this out.

[@carlocatalano8859]

Great video.. I need to replace my upper steering column bearing on my 86 CJ7 non tilt .... is this sometime I'll be able to do while he steering column is still in the Jeep? Can I get to everything that needs to be removed from the front?

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Unfortunately no. The upper bearing sits on a ring clip and is held in place in the ignition housing by the shaft pushing it up against the housing lip.

[@carlocatalano8859]

@@coolguy_CJ7 Thanks for the fast response. Maybe I can grease it up instead of replacing it once I take it apart as far down the column as I can go. It's making a god awful noise when steering. I already replaced the lower bearing. Thanks again and keeps these videos coming.

[@jdimeo1966]

Do you plan to make a video showing you putting this all back together?

[@coolguy_CJ7]

That would be a good sequel. I need to get my hands on another steering column. Maybe I’ll offer it up to the subscribers. :)

[@alexburchall9150]

Hey, thank you so much for these videos! Do you happen to know how to remove the housing from a tilt column? Stripped as far as we can go with ignition barrel removed, housing comes forward about half an inch and then is held by something. Feels like its the ignition control rod connection. But not sure. Any help is super appreciated!

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Sorry so late in my response. If you haven’t already figured it out, I will check my resources and let you know.

[@bma4406]

Hi Jeep Cool Guy ! Have been utilizing your vids on my rebuild. Been a huge help. Did you ever make the re assembly video of the steering column ?

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Sadly enough, no. I got caught up in a tight timeline on my wife’s CJ. What I would love is for someone to send me their steering column so that I can redo it for them and film the process of rebuilding it :)

[@bma4406]

@@coolguy_CJ7 Understand. Thanks for the reply. I have committed to my little guy we would work on the rebuild. I will try to watch your video again from starting at the end and working back. Perhaps I will video and send to your for narration !! In addition I will keep my eyes open for another column reasonably priced and drop ship to you for your channel. Thank you for the content you put out. Brad

[@coolguy_CJ7]

@@bma4406 what a cool experience you’re going to have. Priceless for your kid.

[@deanpuzon9628]

What kind of grease did you use to pack the upper steering column bearings.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

I first started by spraying it with brake cleaner to get the old grease and whatever dirt/junk was in it. Then I pressed in Mobil 102481 1 Synthetic Grease. Did the same for the lower bearing as well even though that was new.

[@deanpuzon9628]

@@coolguy_CJ7 do you think the superlube would also work in the bearings….I am doing an automatic with tilt….there is a large white nylon knuckle, I’m thinking the superlube would also be good for that.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

@@deanpuzon9628 for sure. The super line is really good stuff.

[@FightnMilkysTTU]

This helps a ton. Thanks for all you do. Any chance you know what size screw holds the turn signal lever on the switch? The PO of my jeep took almost all the components out and the replacement parts from Quadratec didn’t include the screw with the switch or with the lever.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Hmmm. That I do not. And the thread count is more like a wood screw. You could reach out to some groups on Facebook. I’m sure there are a few people that will have them. I wish I had a set for you.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

I do have a lever though I believe.

[@FightnMilkysTTU]

@@coolguy_CJ7 Thanks for the response. I ended up trying a #8-32 machine screw. Can’t remember if it was 1/2 or 3/4 long but it seems to work. The screw wasn’t a perfect fit for the Omix turn signal lever, but it fit the switch well enough.

[@zodiacdiverdave7256]

Very cool, Cool Guy. I just happened to tear my cj7 steering column apart a few days before you uploaded this video. Currently I am waiting for some replacement parts from 4WHEEL Parts to arrive so I can start to put it back together. I just wanted to tell you that the two large plastic pieces can be polished back to the original gloss finish. The small plastic collar that attaches behind the steering wheel will have to be painted. It was painted originally and is yellow under that paint. So when you start to sand it the yellow will show through. Don't ask me how I know. To polish the 2 large pieces I started with 1000 wet sand paper and progressed through to 5000 trizac and finish with polishing compound and a small 2 inch polisher. Mine came out perfect. Good luck with your project, I will subscribe and follow you build.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Excellent feedback and sorry I didn't get this video up earlier :) What I wound up doing was to sand down the ignition housing and the mid-shaft coupling to get the initial paint off and then applied a good etch primer followed by a semi-gloss black. The lower housing (metal) I sandblasted and powder coated semi-gloss black. Turned out really nice. The one thing that I've found interesting is the length of the actual shaft itself. I have 2 extras that are about 1.5 inches shorter. I have no idea what they would go to. Got any idea?

[@zodiacdiverdave7256]

The only thing that I can think of that a shorter shaft would fit is maybe a cj5.

[@brucewaits8709]

Hey this is a great video. The 79 CJ5 I bought had all the parts in a box for the steering column and i have been trying to figure out where it all goes. I heard you mention a video coming on installing it back. Has it be made yet? Yea, I know reverse order but still. Thanks for this.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Not yet. I just finished painting the body, so everything starts to go back together now. That is one of about 20 videos coming in the next few weeks.

[@weissledere]

Hey, great video! I've got an '84 CJ7 with power steering/no tilt. I just pulled my lower steering shaft out to replace it. The lower column bearing was seized and it took some work to remove it. I felt the 'spring' in the column shaft as I was pulling the bearing off. And once it was off, the spline seemed to be a little farther out of the column than when I started. I tapped it with a rubber mallet and the upper shaft went back up toward the firewall. Is this a problem?

[@coolguy_CJ7]

As with the steering shaft, they are both collapsible in a front on collision. If you were to look closely at your column inner shaft, you'll see 2 plastic filled holes. These are called sheer pins and these are what break to absorb the front impact. Otherwise the steering column would go right through the driver. With time these become brittle and break internally. It's not necessarily a problem safety wise, but you'll have a difficult time installing your lower steering linkage to the steering column because the shaft will want to collapse an inch or so into the column and you won't be able to connect the 2 shaft with the retaining collar. I had the exact same problem on another CJ7. The best course of action is to replace the sheer pins

[@weissledere]

@@coolguy_CJ7 Any chance you have a video or images that show the shear pins and how to replace them? Many thanks.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Email me at [e-mail] and I can give you some thoughts.

[@jasonstrickland6982]

Where do I plug the purple wire 719 from the solenoid to the steering column?

[@coolguy_CJ7]

719? I don't know what you're referring to.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

The only purple wire that i can find in my schematic is the distributor to the EEC computer. There is also a purple wire that connects to the fuse block that connects to the engine temp sensor on the back of the block and one that runs to the oil pressure switch.

[@charleshoward6624]

Hey Cool Guy I am working on my CJ7 1984 steering column and I live by the beach which means everything is Rusted. The tumbler / lock cylinder is not coming out when I go to press the release button any suggestions on getting that out otherwise?

[@coolguy_CJ7]

It's really more of a P.I.T.A. than it needs to be. Sometimes it's hard to get the release button/slot to depress deep enough to slide under the flange in the ignition housing. Try wiggling it as you push down on it. Shifting it back and forth. Spraying WD40 won't help much. It took me a good 15 min of experimenting and jostling it around to get it out the first time.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Also, try and pull on the key cylinder as you depress the tumbler retainer. Just don't lose patience. I did that once and it didn't go well. :)

[@charleshoward6624]

@@coolguy_CJ7 I got it... it was actually between the hole that you stated in your video (mine is 1984) and the locking shaft (rod?). I sprayed the entire Tumblr and shaft and everything in there with kroil and after like you said much patience it came out thank you for your response and your videos are tremendous.

[@charleshoward6624]

The lock cylinder actually started working but the key kept falling out which means it would lock but the key would be pulled out in any position. But the greatest concern is the little safety switch you push down to turn your lock cylinder it's eaten away so badly and rust what do you think I would call that piece looking for it in the search engine?

[@charleshoward6624]

You called it the key release lever I will look thank you

[@KENFEDOR22]

Hey Cool Guy, I very much appreciate your videos! A question if I may; my '86 CJ7 horn hasn't worked in a couple of years. Horn itself works, new relay but the simple act of switching to ground is interrupted somewhere. Question: is there a common point of failure? I've sanded and cleaned the contact plate and have taken apart the steering down to the ignition tumbler (had to replace that recently). The EE in me is convinced there's an open circuit not allowing the ground to complete. I'm half tempted to wire a separate horn button switch.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Interesting. Have you tried using a voltmeter to test conductivity? When you say the horn works by itself, how did you test that?

[@KENFEDOR22]

@@coolguy_CJ7 Thanks for responding. Yeah, I need to just trace it with a multimeter. Testing the horn directly connected to 12V proves the horn works. Keep up your great work!

[@wescollins23]

Thanks for the video, it is great to have a step by step to put mine back together. I have a bearing on order, but at what point is the upper steering bearing considered "bad" ? Mine is gritty but turns just fine. Seems like it is worth replacing when it is apart.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

If you can find one then replace it when you can. If not then blow it out with compressed air and reoil. Do this a couple times and it should get into a much smoother operation.

[@wescollins23]

@@coolguy_CJ7 thanks, it's almost 30 bucks for the bearing which is why I asked! I'll go ahead and replace it since it's already apart

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Sigh. At least it'll be good for another 40 years. :)

[@ryanmoreau5266]

Thank you so much for the video. Quick question. I am trying to put by steering column together but am having issues getting the rod back into the ignition switch. Did you have any issues and do you have any suggestions? The top portion of the steering column is put together so it seems like everything up high is in place, but the rod wants to pop out of the switch and it took a lot of force to get the switch back into place with the rod in it. Thanks!

[@coolguy_CJ7]

My brother had the same problem. Willing to bet that you don't have the switch mounted right. It's counter intuitive.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Try installing it so the the switch fits down over the rod. Once you put it in the right apot you'll see what I mean. If you need pictures, email me at [e-mail]

[@ryanmoreau5266]

@@coolguy_CJ7 thanks so much! I am going to mess with it tonight but I might end sending you an email. I really appreciate your videos and your time!

[@ryanmoreau5266]

I couldn’t take it. I went out and looked. I also looked at your video on my computer, as opposed to my phone. I see the error. I essentially had it upside down. I was able to correct it. Again, I really appreciate your time.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

@@ryanmoreau5266 well that's the best news ever! Success!

[@mikego18753]

Thanks Cool Guy.Watched your vid and decided to lay off,ha ha. Thumbs up.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Glad it helped you save yourself from yourself :)

[@mikego18753]

@@coolguy_CJ7 Sorted it with wd40.p.s.any new vids on the way.cheers.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

@@mikego18753 I’ve been asked that a lot considering it’s been a year since my last video. Yes, there will be new ones but I just don’t know when. Hopefully this spring/summer as I start a new project.

[@chucklivinlarge563]

Thanks man!🤙

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Glad to help.

[@HK-bm3ln]

What is the name of the part that you are holding and putting on the side (19.37 mins) Thank you.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

The official term is "remote rod", but for me, I like to call it the ignition actuator rod. :) Is that what you were referring to?

[@aaaasbjk]

bowl(plastic) and shroud(metal).

[@normanplombe2889]

Boy, the engineers sure got to this thing....So over-complicated. I'm eliminating all that stuff from my '80. One master on/off and a pushbutton start on the dash replaces all that stuff. Hand signals'll do for me. Oh, and no horn...watch for finger!

[@coolguy_CJ7]

While you're at it, why not add an ejector seat? :)

[@slowcountryboy476]

I was wanting to learn how to replace the bearings. I wonder if one can pound them out caveman style or is there a tool to remove and replace the bearings in a civilized manner. Otherwise this is a good video since my column looks like someone used a screw from their rear kitchen door, another from a barn door, another from a cast iron wood stove, another from a kitchen faucet, and so on. Plus, I learned the spring under the steering wheel lock is missing, the steel pin that rises into the wheel lock is missing also, and various other parts missing or replaced with parts from their uncle Joe's barn!! This thing is a real mess not to mention the rest of the truck is a mess.

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Sounds like you’re the victim of the PO syndrome. One of the things that I try to ask everyone when they are making decisions on their CJ is are you going to be a good PO or a bad PO. Unfortunately some can’t tell the difference. Sounds like you’re missing half of the parts that make the column work. I’ll try to see if I have any of the things you described. In regards to the bearings, they are fairly easy to remove with a punch. But remember that the surrounding material is 40 year old plastic. Break that and you’re starting over. :)

[@slowcountryboy476]

@@coolguy_CJ7 Thank you for responding. I have located upper and lower bearings, ignition switch, and turn signal switch online. I will likely order the parts in the morning.

[@levifurney8661]

Set it on the ground stand on it and pull like hell that's what I did after I rented a piece of s*** puller from O'Reilly's and it snapped off inside my steering wheel don't even bother getting the piece of s*** puller it'll break off inside your stuff they didn't use number 8 grade bolts and if you're not working on something as nice and shiny as what you got there yeah it ain't going to happen like that you'll break the tool first

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Sounds like you've had some really good experiences. :) Anytime you can remove something from a CJ and it doesn't break is a blessing.

[@wakangli]

lighting is...lacking

[@coolguy_CJ7]

Never promised a professional video studio.