I shortened my 72 automatic column shift and it’s easier than you may think. As some said you cut it in the middle of the shaft somewhere. I cut a 1-1/2" section out of the shaft and a corresponding section from the shift tube and column tube. The issue is getting the steering shaft welded straight. You need to tack the shat in 4 places while it’s clamped into some type of support. I used angle iron and clamped in. Weld a spot grind it and rotate in 180 and re clamp it do this until its welded all the way round. You can straighten it afterward in a vise or on an anvil.
The tubes are a little more challenging because the cuts have to match to remain straight so your hacksaw or chop saw technique needs to be up to par, and again use the angle iron with clamps.
I recommend that you cut a little longer than your desired length and trim to the length you want to have. Measure all your parts after disassembly and record them. Then cut the parts and trim to size so the mating part has a nice straight weld point.
You want to have 45 degree bevels on the shaft ends prior to welding so it has good penetration. Don’t do a but weld. You don’t need to bevel the tubes they weld like body panels.
I used 1-1/2" masking tape as a guide on the tubes and had to trim very little afterwards. It made a supprisingly good guide
Last edited by thoroco; 11/26/2008 5:24 PM.
