fixed it! found the little tab on top of the steering column disconnected from the thin metal rod (also on top of the column). put them back together and all works now. however - i noticed what looked like a wire (not electrical but like a cable type) with a hook on the end in the same place as the above mentioned tab. the wire isn't hooked to anything - just laying in the compartment with the steering lack release tab. should it be hooked on to something? TIA from a now much more relaxed shade-tree mechanic. tim 87 325 72tii