2002 Steering Column into 94 Swap?

[Jazz]

Long story short, my steering column is shot. I have a good deal on a 2002 column from a Camaro. I think the shaft ends are different. What else would be involved in putting this into a '94 Firebird? Are the electrical connectors the same?

1. Will it physically bolt into the '94? are the mountings the same?
2. Are the electrical connections the same? (not worried abour airbag or radio)
3. Would it be better to swap the shaft from the '94 unit to 2002 and use the rag joint eliminator instead (I have one unopenned already).
I am thinking about switching to the 2002 style intermediate shaft to get rid of the rag joint while I'm at it.

Worst case I think the parts from the '02 could be used to fix my '94 (the pivots are worn, its not just the screws need tightening). Love to get this fixed soon but also want to do it the best way.

[96lt1m6]

Direct bolt in with a catch it has a different connector for the airbag but thats easy to swap...Does it come with the key? Hopefully it does then you can take your key and the key that came with the column to the dealer and tell them you need a new key for the new column with the resistor value of the original key should be no more than 25.00
Also if you get the steering shaft,convert it to fit your Lt1 rack it really only takes 15min.....Steering will feel better than ever!!!

[Jazz]

What modification has to be done to the shaft. I read the sticky thread about installing the LS shaft, but I'm going to be using an LS column as well in addition to just the shaft so do I even need to change the index?

My VATS has already been deleted from the computer by PCM4Less. If that's that case do I need to worry about that? It does come with a key by the way, so does that mean I can get a key made without the Vats?

I'm already running an aftermarket stereo and the airbags are not active so the airbag connector isn't an issue.

Sounds like I'm going to need the intermediate shaft though.

Thanks, that really helps. It will be great to go from worn our '94 with a rag joint to a whole new rack. Should really make a huge difference.

[96lt1m6]

i don't think the column is the problem,the rack is.....so you would have to mod the shaft anyway..
getting rid of the bulky ragjoint frees up space..

[Jazz]

I'm actually thinking this is a great mod for me. Something I wouldn't have done if it hadn't failed the Virginia State Inspection. Go figure...

[Spartan7]

i don't think the column is the problem,the rack is.....so you would have to mod the shaft anyway..
getting rid of the bulky ragjoint frees up space..

No, the 93-02 racks are the same. The 98-02 column output shaft is turned 90* compared to the LT1 column. All you need is the LS1 steering shaft and you're good there, no modification required.

If VATS is already gone, and it comes with a key, then there's no need to screw with that either. If you want the new column keyed to your old key, then simply disassemble both columns and swap the ignition cylinder from your old column to the new one.

[96lt1m6]

[QUOTE=Spartan7;121685]No, the 93-02 racks are the same. The 98-02 column output shaft is turned 90* compared to the LT1 column. All you need is the LS1 steering shaft and you're good there, no modification required.

good to know,done too many swaps and guaranteed to mess up something

[Jazz]

That's what I was thinking.

Also, Since the steering wheel is already removed I was hoping I could just move the wheel on the shaft. I can't remember if the wheel is keyed or not. I don't think it is.

I'm also wondering if an aftermarket wheel might be in order. Virginia requires that the original airbags be in place but this one looks like an airbag wheel and the airbag light will still be working (indicating the system is operational) I never intend to sell this car so it shouldn't be a problem in the future. This Momo wheel really would look nice I think.

[Jazz]

Thanks for the help. All parts are being shipped and for less than $100.00 with shipping (except for that $300 Momo steering wheel).