You mean an aftermarket steering column from a company such as Ididit or Flaming River? Would be similar to doing an installation on a street rod, just a different vehicle, in theory. Would probably need to cross the (typically GM) wiring harness color codes into the Chrysler coding where everything connects. Would most probably be best with a floor shifter, too!
Which vehicle are you considering this "enhancement" on? If the vehicle could have come factory with a tilt wheel column, that would be the easiest to rebuild/refurbish and install.
Just some thoughts,
CBODY67
Ididit and FR do make some model-specific tilt columns, but usually for more popular applications as Camaros, 55 Chevies, and similar. Otherwise, it's a "measure" situation for their universal units. If you have not already done so, you probably need to go into their website and look around. While you're at is, I might recommend that (under-dash space available) to also onsider an upgrade to one of the electric power steering columns.
What are the concerns with your existing column? Just curious.
Take care,
CBODY67
If you do this conversion make sure you use the Chrysler plunge system at the steering box. Otherwise you could lock up your steering. Never use U Joints.
I was going to use both u joints. The column will be the very same angle as factory which is almost a strait line. I'm not arguing. I am hoping to get a more detailed explanation and after you look at this pic. I'm not a tech by any means but ujoint rarely have issues when not exceeding certain limits. The ujoints I'm looking at are odidit pieces. Thank you for your help.
View attachment 447144
The design from the factory is for crash protection. The coupler is designed to absorb movement in a crash. The U Joints will not give you this protection.
You are missing the point. You would be better off to find a floor shift column for your car. But I am done, it is your car, and you don't want advice when you ask for it.I understand that. Most of these aren't crash rated. Being it's a convertible I'm not much looking to crash the car. But the issue of locking up bothers me. Is it less of a concern after seeing how strait it is?
You are missing the point. You would be better off to find a floor shift column for your car. But I am done, it is your car, and you don't want advice when you ask for it.
The design from the factory is for crash protection. The coupler is designed to absorb movement in a crash. The U Joints will not give you this protection.
They make them for the Mopar's that will bolt right in and are collapsible but they don't have tele also. I'm familiar with the factory collapsible steering column and the safety aspect of it all. Your sleeved idea is a very good one since there is going to be a shaft anyway and it nearly strait. I'm certain a machine shop can build that for me if Ididit does not already offer one.1967 was the first year for an energy-absorbing/collapsible steering column on C-body cars,
with an internal column section of expanded metal for the "crush" protection.,
By comparison, our '69 1/2 ton Chevy pickup, had a section (under hood section) that was two pieces of steel rod, one which would slide inside of the outer section for the collapsing function. Perhaps something of this nature might be used in the new column's "intermediate shaft" section (between the u-joints)?
CBODY67
Thank you for the help.U-joints locking up? Such joints have been used in circle track racing for decades, as I recall. Nothing new about that. Just get some high-quality items so they can have some longevity in the mix. Ultimate life might depend upon if the needle bearings are sealed or can be lubed every so often, plus protection from "grit/moisture intrusion". Or at least are generic enough they might be sourced from a local dirt track car supply vendor, if not Ididit.
Take care,
CBODY67