58 ford column swap question

I am swapping my 58 ford from a 3 on the tree to an automatic. I bought what I was told was a 58-59 auto column. The problem I have is the stock 58 stick column tube is 1 1/2" od where it meets the steering box at. The auto column I bought is 1 1/2" until about an inch from the box where it expends to 1 5/8" od. So the collar that tightens at the end of the column won't fit. I can find or make a new collar, but will it be ok at the box, or will there be a problem as far as a leak, or water getting into it?



-LUKEY-

 

I'm gonna just make some slits on the end (about 1 1/2" in) and clamp it up...hope it works


-LUKEY-