1952-59 Ford steering column shift detents worn 53 Ford

Ok I know I can't be the only one with this problem. The detents are all worn on my column. Is there a fix for this? I don't want to go floor shift. I wanna keep it low $. I was thinking about trying to make a thin bracket that would bolt/screw to the underside of the column. I don't have machine shop or anything so hand tools and patience.

Has anyone else already figured out a solution to this?

 

It has been my experience that replacing worn parts with used but serviceable parts is usually the best way to go. If you can identify the specific parts you need (preferably with photos), chances are that someone in this group either has them or can point you in the right direction to find them.

I'm with you, I don't like aftermarket floor shifts either...

Good luck!

 

Well I just made a longer trans mounted shift lever so at least the column shifter now travels the correct distance between the gears (before it only moved less that 3/8" to cover all the gears and you could not tell which gear you were in.)

The part that is worn is the part of the column right below the steering wheel, it also houses the turn signal switch.

 

I will flip through my ford repair manual and see if it shows anything.

 

Hi, I have a 54 ford with an automatic with the same problem. I removed the colum and found the part on the steering colum was worn and had it welded at a weld shop for $20. I cleaned it up with a grinder and a file. I'm going to repaint the colum ,put it back together and put it in the car. It should be as good as new.

 

Nascardave

Ya that looks like it would work. I was kinda hoping to not have to pull the column out. Does that top part come off the column stem without removing column from car and steering box? I also was wondering about welding on it. Is it just pot metal? I guess a welder would know how to weld it.

 

fftoddster,
The part that needs welding is part of the steering colmn. You do not have to pull the steering box, it all comes out from inside the car. You start by pulling the steering wheel, disconect the linkage from the inside of the engine compartment. There is some wiring for the neutral safety switch, there is a plate on the floor on the inside at the bottom of the column that has to be removed. There are a couple of bolts that hold the column to the dash and a pinch type clamp at the bottom of the column that has to be loosened. Don't forget to disconect the horn wire and the wires to the turn signal switch. Hope this helps you.