1955 steering column explosion/diagram

[kkarrer]

Hello!  Working on a couple of 55's and I need to see if anyone has an diagram of the steering column.  I've got the column out, so that's not a problem.  What I need to know is how the parts (especially in the upper area around the turn indicator arm and shifter arm area) go together or come apart.  I have the 54 shop manual and the 55 supplement, but they are really not much help.  Also, on an Eldorado, which of those parts were chromed and which were painted?
Thanks,
Ken Karrer  1955 convertible (62)
1941 6227D coupe
kkarrer@austin.rr.com
512-626-7268

[mike peters]

ken:  I just got the steering column on my 56 Eldo back together yesterday after replacing the horn slip collar on the steering shaft.  If the 55's are the same as the 56, then the turn signal wires will be the problem.  The directional switch housing with the upper steering shaft bearing and turn signal loom has to clear the lower ring attached to the shifter tube.  This is accomplished by careful twisting and working the assembly past a very troublesome knob on the shifter tube which corresponds to a slot in the outer housing.  It's a tight fit, but slow, careful persistence will pay off here.  Don't lose the thin spring washer that goes between the shifter ring and  turn signal housing, and take care not to skin any insulation from those turn signal wires. Reassembly is the opposite.  Hope this helps.  mike

[mike peters]

Plating: Again, if 56's are the same as the 55's, the turn signal housing is plated and the shifter lever ring attached to the shifter tube  is covered with a grooved tape material, as well as the base of the shift lever where it attaches to the shifter ring.

[kkarrer]

Mike,
     Thanks for the reply.  I'll be careful on those wires.  I was really hoping that someone had the exploded print version of how the thing goes together.  I was able to find that for my 41 and thought the 55 would be easier.
Take care,
Ken Karrer  1955 convertible 62, 1955 Eldo, 1941 6227D coupe