Flathead with Model a steering box Question?

Hi fellow Hamber's,

I just put in my 8ba flathead and 39 trans in my 29 yesterday and one of the main issues I seem to be having is the Model a Steering Box/Column being extremly close, if not hitting the side of the head. Does any one know if, or how I can keep the model a setup and possible move or cut something to make it fit? Any advice or pictures would be greatly appriciated. Thanks

 

Most folks toss that horrible A box for an upgraded piece when doing a V8 swap. First because of the problem you're having, and second because they're awful boxes even when in good shape. The A box is about as rudimentary a piece as ever existed. With V8 power, your Model A will be a much more responsive car, and that crude stock box will not be enjoyable.

Ford boxes made a major improvement in 1937 with a rolling sector. You might pick up Vern Tardel's book 'Ford Steering: Service, Repair & Modification". Lots of good info concerning this problem and its remedy. The '48-'52 F1 pickup box is a good choice, although it does require modification for the job, and my personal favorite when doing an A-V8. This 'modern' box uses a side drag link, same as the A, and the steering shaft is located underneath instead of up top which provides a lot of extra clearance where you want it. However, they can be close to some exhaust headers.

The early F100 box ('53-'56) is also a drag link style, and has a top mounted steering shaft like the A box. I've not used one in a Model A application, so I don't know about clearance with the V-8 but I believe they are somewhat smaller in dimension than the stock A box in this area.

Again, these take some work to install, but the end result is well worth the effort in my opinion. Not what you wanted to hear, but definately the better choice.