>Is it the nut behind the wheel that is loose?

Nope, the one on the top side of the wheel that clamps it to the steering
column is the one I was interested in.  It is considerably bigger than
the biggest socket I have which is 19mm.  I have been suggested that 27mm
and 30mm might be the correct size.  I was all set to go out to Sears
today and bring sockets out to the van until I found the one that fit,
but I resolved my problems without pulling the wheel so the answer to
this question will remain a mystery to me for the time being..........

Thanks for all of your suggestions.

Tony

Anthony L. Mourkas
Hampden, Maine, USA
1984 Vanagon Westfalia
1987 Vanagon GL Syncro
1991 Jetta Eco Diesel