Datsun Roadster Forum-311s.org

When I removed the turn signal switch assemble from our 69 1600, I removed a snap ring. Now that the column's all been cleaned and repainted I can't figure out where the snap rings goes. The factory drawings aren't very specific as they only show it at the end of the steering column shaft.
Where's it go?
Dan

Dan, Not sure which snap rings you are referring too. But if you have a digital camera or cam corder. I would take some pictures as you take things apart. Not trying to be smart....just a good Idea. I know I do. Good luck.

Richard

Thanks for the reply Richqrd.
When I removed the steering wheel there is a split tapered collet that the steering wheel tightens against. Once that was removed, I believe there's an external snap ring that fits on the steering shaft to hold the upper shaft in place against the upper shaft support bearing.
Trouble is, I don't see a groove for that snap ring to fit into and I'm wondering if the upper shaft has slipped in the bearings.

Good tip on the digital pictures, I often do the same thing. In this case tho....
Dan

Dan;
That snap ring you are referring to, isn't it a thin wire type? If so, and if memory serves, that's the snap ring to hold that split collet together.

E

Hi Enrique, nice cold clear Christmas, eh?
Nope, that's not it. You're right, theres a thin springy wire clip that holds the two collet halves together but that's n
This is an external snap ring. About 300 degrees of a ring with a hole in each end near the gap that snap ring pliers fit into.
I'm sure it was attached to the column shaft and that I removed it before I realized the turn signal assembly came off in halves. Now that I'm ready to assemble the steering column, I don't see a groove for the ring to fit into.
Sounds like it's time for a picture.
Dan

Perfect, thanks very much SlowBoy. As I suspected, the column shaft has moved in the bearings. I will press it out and reinstall the snap ring.

Dan

For a 69 2000 there is a snap ring that pulls the shaft forward. If you don't have this in the steering wheel will be slightly collapsed and push against the plastic console and nothing will fit together quite right. I had to buy a second steering column to figure this out. Somewhere along the line the snap ring for my car got lost. To expose the groove to fit the snap ring in put a large screwdriver in the hole for the steering wheel lock and use leverage to push the steering shaft forward. There is a spring you are pushing against. The snap ring keeps the steering column in the right place. Once I figured this out it was like winning a major award.

Good information even if it is in reply to a 12 year old post