http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/1929_54chevyparts/06/396.HTM

http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/1929_54chevyparts/06/397.HTM

Here are the two types of steering boxes. Use these along with the manual to check for parts interchange. The Ball nut used in the recirculating ball steering box, 42-46 is the same for all commercial trucks. The housing for the 42-46 commercial is used on all except the COE. This means the 2 ton will fit your chassis OK. The column length will vary depending on the truck size, from 47 5/8" to a 49 1/4". These can be cut and shorten if needed. The ratio will be the same on gear boxes.

The 41 is the same design but uses smaller 1/4" balls, 66 of them, compared to the 42-46 which uses a 60 9/32" balls. Internals won't interchange, but the housing and bearings are the same.

Check the lower bearing races before purchase if you can. The inner bearing race is part of the worm shaft and can not be replaced if its bad. I had to shop E-bay till I found one for mine, and it wasn't cheap! Bushings, bearings, gaskets, and balls all can be bought new. The shaft, sector gear, and ball nut will have to be replaced with NOS or used if they are bad.

If you plan to use you the 42-46 steering wheel, plan on getting the whole assembly with the column. Parts of the horn mechanism are not available except used. The column uses a straight spline shaft for the steering wheel to engage on to, the 37-40 wheel uses a taper shaft with key way. The steel outer mast tube is different but will swap. The upper mast bushings are different and are matched to the horn button you plan to use. I cut the 42-46 shaft off and welded a 37 to it so I could keep my 37 wheel and horn contact.

Hope some of this helps, I just wanted to let you know the gear box swaps over, but its not a direct bolt in with out a complete unit. Having just changed mine out, I can tell you it will drive much easer. The ratio is slower so you have to turn the wheel more, but thats why they drive better.

One more thing, use a 00 or 000 grade grease in them. It takes a thin semi liquid grease to stay in the worn bearing and keep the balls lubed.

Joe

1937 Chevrolet Inline-powered Streetrod