I just added the ignition reverse lock out linkage on my '69 and shifting in reverse takes a little more effort due to the additional linkage having to push up the tab on the steering column. This is the tab that rotates the tube inside the column which allows the key to be removed and turn on the back-up lights.

My question is the tab on the steering column is a little stiff and I know my car sat for a long time before I bought it so what type of lubricant can I use to try and losen it up a bit?

Thanks in advance.

anti-seize

Sorry but I'm pretty new to this...can you be a little more specific. Is that the brand or type, etc?

Thanks

Sorry bout that... Permetex Brand Anti-Seize Compound ( I am sure ther are many brands, just ask for anit seize compund at any auto parts store). The pot metal column doesn't get along with the steel lock pin...(electrolysis). Sometimes you have to take the top of the column apart so you can clean and lube it. The anti-seize will keep it from happening again.

I would think that most of your friction is down where the reverse lockout lever comes out of the steering column jacket (down under the brake booster). The lever is attached to a shift tube that extends up inside the column all the way to the bowl on the upper end of the column. I believe that you can see the bowl rotate when you shift into reverse.

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y38/JIML82/LowerColumnBearingRemoval2.jpg

I would think that you will have to remove the column from the car in order to disassemble the lower bearing and lubricate the socket where the shift tube rotates.

Jim

Thanks for the info. I will check for other threads but how hard is it to remove the steering assembly so I can lubricate the bearings etc. I see the supports under the steering column on the inside of the car and the coupler that connects the steering assy to the steering gear box. Is it as simple as removing bolts from the coupler and the brackets and remove? Does vehcile have to be aligned after removal?

The purpose of removing is that the steering tab that rotates is a litlle stiff but not sure when lubed what is should feel like so I'm not even sure if I should do it. Can someone explain how freely the tab should rotate. It's not stiff but on the other hand I can rotate it by pushing with one finger.

Thanks in advance.