Hey guys. I post this on The Barn as well on the 57FORDSFOREVER site... Just looking for advice and answers.... I was noticing on my steering column, and steering wheel(300) that the gap between the wheel and the column has a large gap. I checked an old unit and the gap seems to be the same. Place the wheel on and tighten down... the nut only goes so far and is basically flush with the steering shaft it goes onto. checked the old unit in the corner and its the same. Was wondering if the "gap" should be closer and tighter? Maybe I am over thinking all this.. but also.... There is a spring in a FORD- O-MATIC column (pn3520) which doesn't seem to be present in a 3 speed man. column. I have it mine and have taken it out and put it back in.... seems to have no effect on anything. Am I wrong on this? I can simply loosen all the hardware on the column and move forward about 1/4 inch.... But I am not sure it will make any difference.(to try and tighten the gap) I will attach pics..... looking for clarity/ My Column and wheel in the car.
Loosen the hex bolt on the u-clamp at the base of the column next to the steering gear and slide the housing pipe upwards toward the steering wheel and this should close the gap. You may also need to loosen the bracket which hold the column to the dash. Good luck.
The Jalopy Journal
