Not sure where to post this, so I'll start here.
I'm requesting advice as to how to make this a safe steering column.
I want to combine the safety of a more modern collapsing DD style steering shaft with the original look of my 1965 steering column. So I'm thinking of making a hybrid column. But it's gotta be safe!
So here is my plan A. I have a plan B too.
Plan A: Install a 1974 GMC truck PS gear box with new pitman arm on my 1965 C10 frame. This is a common upgrade and I already have the correct adapter plate. Use the 1974 rag joint, lower shaft sleeve and DD shaft portion from the same 1974 truck. Then I'll cut off the lower end of my 1965 shaft to the right length and connect it to the 1974 DD shaft with a universal joint. I may have the lower few inches of the round 1965 shaft milled down to form a DD shape. Plan A will give me an original looking steering column with one universal joint and then the rag joint at the gear box.
Plan B: Remove the 1974 DD shaft portion so I'm just left with the 1974 lower sleeve and rag joint. Then cut my 1965 round shaft to length and mill the end to a DD shape so it will slide into the 1974 sleeve. Then install new pins through the sleeve to prevent telescoping. (These pins sheer off to allow the shaft to telescope in the event of an accident that impacts the gear box.)
Last edited by Lugnutz; 04/20/2016 1:30 PM.
