I have a really nice '40 Ford steering column tube that I would like to use with a reversed corvair steering box. Are there such parts to do this. I would think I would need a couple of bearings for each end of the tube, a steering shaft that would fit the bearings, and a u-joint to connect the shaft to the box. I know I can get a U-joint, and I know I can get different styles of shafts with double D ends, or splined, or just round. But what about bearings that will fit the tube? Also, what is available for steering wheel adaptations. It seems simplier to just buy a new steering column ***embly from a supplier that mimics the '40 Ford, but I really like the original that I have and it has a really nice colume drop/ignition switch that I would like to use. K
I put a 40 column in two of my 40 pickups along with the 40 car dash in one. Love it. I will be using the reproduction wheel with the keyed shaft to fit the 40 column. It is also set up to shift the auto trans.
I run a rod that fit up the original hollow column rod and plug welded it in. Milled the end for double D end. For a bearing I milled a piece of teflon plastic to fit the column and drilled it for the 3/4 shaft. Done that on both ends. Steering real smooth.
I use a common bearing that is 3/4 bore and 1/3/8 OD plus flange that is 1 1/2 OD. These are for wheelbarrows and such. They are sealed. They will fit in the tube and not fall in. I weld the joint on the bottom of the shaft and then place a tie rod clamp as a stop against the bearing. The shaft is put in from the bottom and another bearing slips on at the top. Make a spacer if needed under your wheel
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