Technical 47-54 Chevy/ GMC power steering conversion what steering column will fit

I have a 53 GMC and put the power steering kit on. But not sure as to what steering columns will fit didn't really want to go with a flaming river or I did it. Would one out of a S10 fit floor shift ?

 

...orig. one will work with the rite parts and look correct also.

 

thanks

 

What I have done in the past is this:

Cut the stock steering column off of the stock box, tube, shaft and all, right above the iron.
Pull the wheel up and get the shaft out of the way.
Cut the tube off about 6" up (don't cut the shaft). This length will vary depending on the steering box, and if you are keeping the stock shifter.
Get a wheelbarrow wheel bearing at the local hardware store, with a 3/4" ID.

Get a split lock collar, also with a 3/4" ID.

Put the bearing in the tube (might need to file a little), and the split lock on the shaft. Now, you have a complete column.
File, grind, or mill two flats on the exposed shaft, to make it 3/4" DD:

A is .748.... B is .550
so it will accept a common steering u-joint. After that, you can adapt anything.
Take the original column seal, which is rubber, and duplicate it in metal.

Put the whole deal back into place and then clamp or weld the column tube to that new plate. That will solidly locate and mount the column to the toe board.

This will look dead stock in the interior ('cause it is), and will get you going for about $25, or less, not including the u-joint.

 

Alternately, you can use a smooth bore 3/4" weld-on u-joint. Just keep a wet rag on the joint body while welding.

 

Great write up gimpyshotrods. Very clear and easy instructions!!

 

..if you weld on a joint, make sure you clamp the ground on the end attached to the 3/4" shaft, otherwise you weld the needle bearings solid!
...easy to go double D joint, no welding.

 

a late 70s to early 80s gm van tilt fits in perfect. Key stays on the dash, and it fits in the stock dash collar perfectly