Steering column replacement - Ford E series

Annie O · 09-08-2016, 02:45 PM

Received confirmation that to tighten connections to shifting and starting switch the E350 needs steering column replaced. NO a dealer did not tell me that, but my local mechanic who prefers Fords - $300 column, almost as much labor.

This is not a surprise but rather confirms something I had read about before I bought my black V10. Long ago I actually replaced a steering column on my VW Wabbit myself. Has anyone here replaced one on their Ford E?

rallypanam · 09-08-2016, 03:58 PM

Never heard of it.

carringb · 09-08-2016, 04:43 PM

Should only need new "shift-tube" bushings. I've never heard of a '97+ needing a new steering columns.

We had to replace one in our '92, but that's because the interlock got busted by a German friend who didn't know how to drive an automatic.

Annie O · 09-08-2016, 06:44 PM

Ouch your friend sounds hard on shifters

I came across a recurring matter in some Ford forums I was browsing before I bought van.... I had read that some engines switch off while driving, and In spite of much troubleshooting, remedy ended up being in steering column. The issues I experienced are:
van does not start unless shifter backed off a tad out of park
or brake pedal pushed entire way in (short legs, position, ok my feet don't quite touch floor!
Sometimes I need to reverse key a tad to get key out
Shifter has play in it

I thought these were me not being used to but the owner of tire center where RIP kit installed noticed these right away. (The issues not my short legs)

My mechanic said he has seen it I. 3 other Ford busses and it is a know. Issue and steering column is the fix. Since I had come across reference to it I'm not alarmed.

boywonder · 09-09-2016, 08:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Annie O

Shifter has play in it

......pretty much every Ford van on the forum has that issue....floppy shifter.....haven't got around to taking a peek at mine...gotten used to it....

hogasm · 09-09-2016, 08:58 AM

in 580,000 miles I have redone mine 5 times. Last time a bracket had broken.
I did have the part on my desk for the last year till the other day when the wife insisted I clean it off for company. Takes a couple of hours and is easiest to remove the drivers seat and lay on your back.

Dont forget to use blue thread locker