Anybody know if I can use the steering column and box from a 63 galaxie in a 58 custom 300? I am wanting an auto column and I have a 63 setup available. Or is there any other setups that may work so I can add power steering, like maybe a early 70s f150 box and galaxie column???? Thanks in advance Posted from the TJJ App for iPhone & iPad
The F-150 box is not a direct bolt on. Also the box is longer to the front so it needs frame clearance at the top of the frame rail. Not sure if you can change Pitman arms or not. Never tried a 63 box on a 57-58 but I know the column is a good bit shorter than the 57-58. I used a Dodge Ram Truck box in mine. As you can see it's not a bolt in and I had to build a Pitman arm. This is no big deal for me. at that time I felt it was my best choice. I also installed a 1961 column so I could run my stock 57 steering wheel. 60-64 use the same column, that's how I know about the length issue. The Wizzard
I know the 60-64 column uses a rag joint, I was hoping that was why the column was shorter. I am trying to figure out a way to keep the interior looking mostly stock (with column shifter). I am swapping to a 302/aod and really don't want a floor shifter. I'm on a budget or I would just find a 57/58 auto column, but all I find are way to expensive Posted from the TJJ App for iPhone & iPad
I can tell you that the 57 and 58 do not interchange easily. They are different lengths due to the more modern 58 box.
So did I until a 57 column tube and shifter was too short for my 58 Ranchero steering box. Big gap below the steering wheel when installed. The 58 box is an upgrade for the 57 but you need the whole column.
If that's the case, I wonder how close my 63 setup will be? Guess its time to break out the tape measure and figure this out! Thanks
The 58 gearbox will bolt in however the horn setup is completly different horn wire on 57 goes through the steering shaft and the 58 goes down the side of the column with the turn signal wires. If you change to anything other than a 57 you will need to change column and the steering wheel also to utilize the rag joint and the horn issue. The other difference between the 57 and the 58 is that the 58 and later uses a recirculating ball bearing set up. Steers easier.
Correct on 57-58 being different length (1-1/2") and the horn issue. Another thing to be ready for is in 1960 when they went to a Rag Joint they didn't use a bearing in the lower end of steering tube. Makes them a little difficult to use. The mast jacket had a metal bracket around it used to center and lock things in place. Most likely why G.M. tilts were used on most conversions. The Wizzard
The Jalopy Journal
