Today I did the steering column fix with a roll pin. WHAT A DIFFERENCE!!!
This took all the slop out of my steering, no more dead spot right in the middle where it is unresponsive and it took the clunking/rattle noise that I would get driving over rough sections of road. Can't wait to get it out on a dirt road and feel the difference.
My only regret is not doing this when I first got the truck. Total time was just under 2 hours from grabbing the screwdriver to having all the tools up. I spent probably 20 minutes messing with the stupid clamshell over the steering column because it wouldn't let go and I didn't want to break it. I also ate a bowl of cereal after disconnecting the battery just to make sure there was nothing residual left in the system before I unplugged the airbag.
The roll pin I used was 3/16" and 1.5" long. For the drilling I started with a brand new 11/64" bit and drilled all the way through. Then went through with the 3/16" bit, also brand new. Then just pound the pin in, I used my roll pin punches, and reassemble. For reassembly I recommend connecting the lower joint that comes from the rack first as this will help keep everything in place as you try and line up the two upper allen bolts.
Also to make sure I got the column into the right position on the joint from the rack I marked not only the rotation of it, but also how far in it was. The rotation can't really adjust though because it is keyed.
As for the safety feature being "disabled" I'm not worried about it. The roll pin would have to be stronger than all the bolts holding the steering column in and the air bag should also be keeping you away from the steering wheel. I never intend to find out though...
Posting this in both threads on this fix on the forum, just incase someone only reads one thread...
