Steering column cover question

[CJK '73 240z]

Does anyone know if a '71 steering column cover will fit a '73? I am in need of one for my '73 Z but can only find one from a '71. Happy new year!

[DeesZ]

The factory parts catalog shows earlier shell not interchangeable with later ones from 07/72 mfg date forward...

[CJK '73 240z]

Thanks a bunch - you just saved me some money and headache!

[EScanlon]

After reviewing the fiche, the part in question did change with some model changes, but I think you could use it.

The 73 Steering Column wiring has some extra wiring (Int. Wiper), and maybe a connector or two change, but for the most part should be very similar to the one you need for your 73.

If the part is available rather inexpensively, buy it, make the attempt to mount it and if it doesn't fit, then offer it for sale as an earlier part. Or offer it for trade.

The interchangeability index, while considered an "absolute" neglects to note if it can be reversed i.e. a 73 shell on a 71.

From the parts manual for a Roadster:

"ICA is the abbreviation of interchangeability.

...The only modified parts carry this column. (SIC)

...These codes always show the relation between the part itself and the former part shown above. (emphasis mine)

Note that it does NOT say the relation between the former part and the new part.

So, the difference may be as simple as that the earlier cars did NOT have a trim around the Ignition Lock, but later ones did and the hole in the cover was enlarged / reduced to accomodate it. OR that the newer covers now had a screw hole in the bottom to better afix it to the ignition lock and prior ones did not.

So, while in some things the ICA is a good guide, with others it's a try and see. I have a 73 Heater Control Panel in a 71 which sports a 72 dash, yet the ICA says no...get my drift?

FWIW

E