The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk Which steering column??

Hi Guys,
I'm going with power steering in my 49 1/2 ton and I need a newer steering column. The small block V-8 is in and I need one that will fit. I would like a tilt, shift on the column one. What is the best one to get. I have heard that ones from around the 1980 vans work. Any ideas. Thanks.

kskt4

The chevy vans with the tilt column will work. I have a manual tranny so I didn't need to go that route but was encouraged by other bolters to take a look at them.

I ended up with a 86 camaro steering column. However the Chevy van columns are popular to use among the bolters here.

-Chris

I have a tilt/shift column from a chevy truck or blazer in my 54. Fit up just fine. Had to have a key cut which cost some additional $.

Ditto. I love having power steering & a tilt wheel in the old chevy! Mine is out of an 87 P/U.

Mine's out of a 76 Monte Carlo,
Scott

Most folks who search for the rare '70's Chevy van column want tilt options, but retain the key-in-the-dash ignition as well as the shift on the floor witout paying $250+ for a street rod column. You can make most GM tilt columns work if they're the correct length. They often have a compatible wiring harness to an upgrade system too. Do you know how long the column should be? Also, consider the new route past the headers on the V8, as you may need a joint to get around the exhaust to the power steering box. Is the power steering set-up a conversion or did you drop a new front clip into the beast? Show us some pics!

im just curious.whats so great about tilt columns?i looked around at the last cruise in and most people with tilt columns had them centered.

Zenish-

They adjust to where-ever you like. If another (shorter or taller) driver gets in, they can adjust it along with the mirrors. If you want to slide out, you tilt up and the wheel is out of your way.