Hey Guys/Gals, I'd like to get some ideas on how to convert my stock steering column, shifter and wheel for use with R&P Steering and an automatic trans. My 50 Ford Woodie now has a Fatman spud with R&P steering. I have already cut the column (long) in anticipation for the conversion. I know I'll need some type of bushing on the end of the column tube and shaft and an adjustable arm like Lokars to make the connection....but have not gone much further regarding what else I need to do. Thanks in advance for any ideas.
It's pretty simple. Cut the column off somewhere after it exits the firewall, depending on how you need to run your U joints. Measure outside dia. of the shaft, and inside dia. of the column tube, and buy a bearing to fit (permanently sealed/lubed). McMaster Carr has a good selection. Weld in a washer, or sheet metal retainer at the top part of where the bearing will fit, and make another retainer for the bottom part. I either use a late model type clip and cap, or make a cap with a piece of tubing that fits over the colum tube, and a fender washer of the same diameter. Secure this cap with some screws. Just be sure not to screw into the bearing...make the tube high enough up to clear it. If you do this "after" the stock column linkage, you don't have to worry about how that works. In some cases, you might have to make some nylon, or teflon sleeves to keep the inner shift tube secure in the column and around the shaft.
Chopolds...Thanks for the info...good stuff. I'll keep you posted. I see Bob K is one of your friends too. I met Bob in Detroit this year....he got me to take a serious look at the HAMB, saying alot of great info is here...he was right...thanks again. Murph
Check out this link, it has a picture of the McMaster-Carr bearing you need listed, along with the part number: http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=294910&highlight=mcmaster&showall=1 And here's an alternate way of doing it using a four-bar bushing: http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=267066&highlight=mcmaster
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