[JimMueller]

Not sure where else to post this, feel free to move.

For years my steering column has been collapsing at the 7 o'clock position. I've always read that it was loose tilt bolts within the column but that it wasn't a safety issue. I finally had a shop (formerly a dealer) inspect and tighten the tilt bolts but they told me they were barely loose... that the column is loose at the joint.

This is my only vehicle so I would prefer minimal down time. I've located a new OEM column at my cost of $1000. Else I might be able to pickup a used one locally but would be leery of it's quality and would need to locate a local rebuilder. It's more a annoyance than anything, but if I consider the price reasonable I'd like to take care of it.

[JimMueller]

I just assumed my existing lock cylinder and pellet would be migrated to the replacement column. I've seen those column teardown links, and I'm worried I'll mess it up. I can get a used one locally, but what do I need to physically inspect on the used parts to determine the condition, assuming I don't have it rebuilt?