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what does it take to swap a 53 3100 steering box and column to a 55 2nd steering box and column? what do i need to change if anything. does it give me more belly room? 53 3100 root

I could see a lot of work with probably no gain. Check the distance from the column mount to the steering wheel on both series and you will probably find they are fairly close.
The 57-59 TF steering column would be a better candidate as it is 4 inches shorter than the 55-2. However, the steering boxes mount in different locations on the frame so modifications would need to be made for mounting it. Also the frame is narrower on an AD truck which could effect the steering geometry relating to the length of the drag link and the pitman arm. There could also be problems with the shifting components requiring additional modifications. If you have a truck with a floor shifter you could possibly find a aftermarket tilt column that would fit your needs. It would still require modifications to adapt it to your existing box.
Fred

How close is the steering wheel from the dash? Do you have room to move it closer without hitting your fingers on the dash? You could cut the column and shaft between the fire wall and steering box, shorten it to your liking and reconnect the shaft with a double-D Coupling (assuming the shaft is a standard size).

The 55-2/56 column is longer than the 57-59 as Fred said, but the wheel grip is in the same place...the early wheels are flat and the later wheels are dished.

Mike B

I think Iam going to cut it off about 2-3 inches. Thanks everyone for the input. 53 3100 root