Tilt release system for a steering column

A tilt release system for releasing a locking mechanism operable to retain a tiltable end portion of an elongated steering column of an automotive vehicle in angularly adjusted position comprising:

• a bracket mounted on the steering column,
• a pivot pin mounted on said bracket for rotation about an axis extending transversely of the steering column,
• a lever mounted on said pivot pin to rotate with said pivot pin,
• an arm extending radially outwardly from said pivot pin to rotate with said pivot pin,
• means providing a connection between said arm and the locking mechanism to release the locking mechanism when the lever and pivot pin are rotated in one direction,
• wherein the steering column is disposed in a vertical plane and extends generally from front to rear of the vehicle, the bracket is mounted on the tiltable end portion of said steering column, the axis of rotation of said pivot pin is horizontal and perpendicular to the steering column and said pivot pin has a second radially outwardly extending arm, said lever is mounted on said second arm, said second arm and said lever extending parallel to the steering column in a direction toward the rear of the vehicle in a retracted position thereof and being pivotable downwardly to release the locking mechanism, and said lever is releasable from said second arm by rearward pressure thereon when said second arm and lever are in said retracted position, said lever has an elongated passage in which said second arm is slidably received, means for releasably retaining said second arm in said passage, and
• wherein said arms are at opposite ends of said pivot pin.