Here's what you need to do:
1. Safety First:
* Disconnect the battery's negative terminal. This prevents accidental short circuits.
* Have the car properly supported. Use jack stands, never rely solely on a jack.
2. Accessing the Steering Wheel:
* You'll need a steering wheel puller. These are relatively inexpensive and available at most auto parts stores. Trying to remove the wheel without one is very difficult and risks damage.
* Locate the steering wheel retaining bolt(s). Usually, there are one or two behind the steering wheel. You might need a special socket or spline to fit this bolt.
* Important: Before you begin, take a picture or make a detailed note of how everything is positioned (particularly the location of the retaining bolt(s) relative to the wheel). This will help you reassemble correctly.
3. Removing the Steering Wheel:
* Attach the steering wheel puller according to its instructions.
* Slowly and carefully tighten the puller to remove the steering wheel. It will likely require considerable force.
4. Inspecting the Hub:
* Once the wheel is off, carefully inspect the steering column's hub and the wheel's splined shaft. Look for:
* Worn splines: The splines are the interlocking teeth that connect the wheel to the hub. If these are worn, the wheel will feel loose. This is the most likely cause.
* Loose or damaged hub: The hub itself might be damaged or loose on the steering column shaft.
* Missing or damaged parts: Check for any missing or damaged components within the hub assembly.
5. Repairing or Replacing:
* Worn Splines: This is often the culprit. Unfortunately, this usually requires replacing the steering wheel hub.
* Damaged Hub: Again, this generally means replacing the entire hub assembly.
* Other Issues: If you find other problems, address them as necessary.
6. Reassembly:
* Install the new or repaired hub assembly.
* Align the steering wheel with the straight-ahead position of the wheels. This is crucial for proper operation.
* Tighten the retaining bolt(s) according to the manufacturer's specifications. If you can’t find the torque value, find a mechanic's torque wrench and tighten it gradually as you feel it get snug.
* Install the steering wheel, ensuring it's properly seated and tightened.
Important Considerations:
* Professional Help: If you are not comfortable working on your vehicle, it's best to take it to a qualified mechanic. Improperly repairing this can lead to dangerous driving conditions.
* Parts: When buying replacement parts, ensure they are specifically for a 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera.
This is a complex repair requiring specialized tools. If you aren't confident tackling it yourself, seek professional assistance. Driving with a loose steering wheel is extremely dangerous.
