What is this?

[DANsCJ7]

Great site guys. This small (approx 1 inch in each direction) thin steel pc folded in several directions fell out of my steering column during cleaning and disassembly. I cannot figure out what it does or where it belongs, and I don't see it in the fuzzy pics of that steering column rebuild link. Ideas?

 

[PaRenegade]

It looks to be a somewhat mangled clip that holds the two square "bearings" (not sure what you'd call them) that fit over the pins on the end of the shaft.
Original Replacement Parts 8132676K - Steering Column Bearing Kit for 72-86 Jeep® CJ Series - Quadratec

 

[DANsCJ7]

Thanks but that's not it. It came from the upper column, I believe, and not part of the coupler near the steering box. It's a bit larger than the part you referred to, but is similar material. Any other ideas?

 

[alpha6]

To me it looks like the lower half of the the toe plate. This would fit along the column right in front (towards the driver) of the seal. There should be an upper toe plate that goes along the top.

Then again after looking at it again, not really sure, but looking at two different books with steering diagrams, that's about the only flat, twisted piece of metal in the column. Does it look broken?

 

[DANsCJ7]

This piece is folded in 3 different planes and looks unmolested. The column was out of the car with all brackets removed before this piece appeared. This pc is very small, less than 2 in max length, and made of very thin pressed metal, so has no strength, if this helps, i could see it securing wires or some minor task

 

[DANsCJ7]

I found it! in an old drawing. It's a little dust shield that installs near the tilt lever. Thx to those who gave it some thought!

 

[alpha6]

Yeah Dan, I checked again...the year before yours too since it was a different set up but can't see anything that matches. Looking at the little hooks bent in it I think you are tight it channeled wire but it doesn't show up as a legit piece. Good luck.