Hello--I'm new to the group but after lurking for a while I know there have been a number of threads about the steering column issues that are frequent in the 95-99 Rivs--excess play in the tilt housing, etc. I am well aware that many key components, such as the tilt housing, are no longer available from GM or possibly even NOS, and that even rebuildable cores are quite rare.
That said, I am having a core rebuilt to replace the tilt column in my floor-shift '95 and it is on track to arrive at my garage next week. So, looking ahead to possible future challenges, my question is about options to (1) swap in columns from other GM models or (2) to have columns custom built by the vendors who are in that business.
I am well aware that, by the book, the 95 and 96 Rivs have steering column interchangeability only with the Oldsmobile Auroras of the same years. But knowing what I know about the affection of GM divisions for the proverbial "parts box," I find it very difficult to believe that columns from no other GM models could be made to work in the 95-99 Rivs. By appearances, for example, there are many similarities between the Rivs of this vintage and the LeSabres etc.--not to mention that the Eldorados of this vintage were, if I am not mistaken, on the same chassis. So I am wondering whether anyone in the forums knows of successful examples of (1) steering columns from other GM models, Buick or otherwise, being swapped into 95-99 Rivs, or (2) successful installation of custom-built columns from aftermarket manufacturers? Many thanks in advance for any insights!
Bill
