I need to really crank on the reach adjustment nut on my steering wheel to keep the wheel from sliding in and out. I suspect there must be a worn part in there, but don't understand the details of how the locking mechanism works.

Can anyone educate me regarding what results in this symptom and what I need to do to fix it so I no longer need a strap wrench to tighten it?

Thanks.

 

I would say the collet fitting (#33 in the diagram is worn) or the bakelite collar that grabs the collet is worn.
I would not reef on it any more though as you may fracture the collar.
Bakelite is hard to repair once its broken _ it seems to fix OK, but it always breaks again.

 

Much appreciated.

 

I had a look at mine, and it is steel with a bakelite edge.
It was pretty easy for me to take a look since the steering column is out of the car.