Steering Column: Installation

Insert column through opening in dash panel. Align bolt holes in brake pedal support and mounting bracket and install bolts. Install nuts loosely on automatic transmission models. Tighten nuts on all others.
On automatic transmission models, loosely install shift indicator cable clamp to column outer tube. Reach behind column and attach indicator cable to shift lever by slipping cable loop over lever cleat. Tighten nuts attaching column to brake pedal support.
Move shift lever into "D" position against drive stop on insert plate. Rotate indicator bracket, located midway on column tube, clockwise or counterclockwise until pointer aligns with "D" mark. Tighten nut on bracket.
Connect electrical connections to column switches. On Ford, Mercury, Lincoln and Mark VI models, slide lower steering shaft assembly into column shaft and tighten nut. Pry lower shaft fore or aft to achieve an 1/8" coupling insulator flatness. Stone shield must be removed for access to coupling insulator.
On all other models, engage safety strap and bolt assembly to flange on input shaft. Install nut attaching column lower shaft and "U" joint assembly to flange on input shaft and tighten. Position safety strap so no metal-to-metal contact exists after tightening nut. Pry steering shaft up or down to achieve an 1/8" coupling insulator flatness.
On automatic transmission models, connect shift rod to shift lever on lower end of column. Raise vehicle and loosen adjustment nut on transmission shift rod. Rotate transmission lever toward front of vehicle until it stops, then move back 2 detents. Shift pointer should be in "D" position. Suspend weight on shift lever to assure lever is firmly against Drive detent. Tighten adjustment nut on shift rod. Lower vehicle.
On all models, engage dust boot to dash panel opening and tighten screws. Attach trim shrouds. Install hood release mechanism and lower column cover. Install steering wheel. Connect negative battery cable and check steering column operation.