C2- 1966 Steering Column Finish?

[ronnie robertson # 36786]

The TIM states "the steering column mast that is visable in the engine
compartment is semi-gloss black".

Question: Is the lower bearing housing and bearing shoulder visable at the end of the column also painted semi-gloss black or left unpainted?

Thanks

[Pete Whelan]

Calling Mike McCagh!

Ronnie,

I am in the process of restoring my steering column and was asking myself the same question. Maybe Mike McCagh can shed some light.

Pete

[Mike M.]

Re: Calling Mike McCagh!

I don't paint the bearing but i'm not certain the bearing was installed after the mast jacket was painted. My guess. regards, mike

[Pete Whelan]

Re: Calling Mike McCagh!

Mike,
I'm sure that the bearing wasn't painted but was the bearing support? It is pressed into the lower end of the steering column tube. A small lip is visible at the end of the tube after the support has been installed.

Pete

[ronnie robertson # 36786]

So What DO We DO? *NM*

[John H.]

Re: Calling Mike McCagh!

Pete -

I can't document it, but being familiar with how GM did things in those days, I'm sure the column tube/jacket was painted all by its lonesome as a fabricated sheet metal part, prior to assembly work of any kind.

[Dave K.]

Re: So What DO We DO?

I think what John's trying to tell you is it doesn't get painted. My 66 column is low gloss black and the lower bearing was installed in it afer paint and before I inserted the steering shaft into it. I left my bearing natural.

Dave Kitch

[Pete Whelan]

Thanks John *NM*