I wanted to know if I could install the steering column on my 61 while the body was off. I did not know if it would be too difficult to put the body back with the column installed. Right now I have the engine out also. I thought it would be easier now with nothing in the way. Thanks as always, Joe DeLuca #37862
-
-
Re: C1 STEERING COLUMN
Joe... I would suggest doing the column after the body is in place. I really don't know if it can be done before body drop - but I would prefer not to have to worry about threading that thing through the firewall. You'll probably have enough on your mind during the drop. -
Re: C1 STEERING COLUMN
It's a lot easier to install a column with the body on the frame in a '58 and later than it is with a '57 or earlier, but it's still a major PITA in either case. When C1's were built originally, the column/gear assembly was installed in the body before body drop and held to the side with an assembly tool, then final-positioned and bolted to the frame rail after the drop; I've always done it the same way, and it's a lot easier than installing it later.Comment
-
Re: C1 STEERING COLUMN
Joe & John - I read the post in such a way that Joe was going to bolt the steering gear box to the chassis - and then without the steering wheel or hub in place, planned to target that shaft through the firewall... What John suggests is the hot ticket. I do believe in 1957 and earlier, you better have that baby in place as John describes, cause you ain't gonna get it in later without the aid of a hacksaw.Comment
-
Re: C1 STEERING COLUMN
Joe,
While I would agree that this is the way to go on early cars, Post-57 caars will give no problem installing the steering box after the body is dropped.
The only thing you will need to do is leave the pitman arm off the box or it will not clear the exhaust manifold.
Regards, John McGrawComment
-
P.S.
Joe you indicated that you also had the engine out. Are you planning on installing the engine after the body drop as well? I would strongly recomend against doing it this way as the chance of damaging the fresh paint is much greater! I would install the engine,transmission and all exhaust except for the little pipes that go out the bumper. It is so much easier to install all this stuff on a clean chassis then it is under the hood! Installing the shielding minus the top shield will probably save you close to 2 hours alone. Put everything on the rolling chassis you can and you will not regret it! I had my engine run in for an hour and all the little exhaust and oil leaks fixed before I put the body on. About the only thing you need to leave off is the radiator, as this can get a little close if you already have the fan on!
Regards, John McGrawComment
-
Re: C1 STEERING COLUMN
Joe...
John Mc advise is excellent, Firing up the engine is very important before the body drop. Installing the steering box & column after the body drop is not hard, wrap the column to prevent scratching, place a towel under the column at the firewall, slide the outer steering plate/gasket on before inserting the column into the firewall hole, place a thin piece of cardboard next to the fender and move the steering box into place. there will be about a 1/16 - 1/8th clearance from the manfold. assembly the pittman arm and you are in business. One thing, check out the pittman arm to box splines on the bench,making sure they slide well.Comment
Comment