1970 steering column

[Kenneth H.]

Just a quick question. Are there any differences between the steering column on a 1970 with an automatic transmission versus one with a manual transmission? My mechanic seemed to think that something about my steering column indicated that it was originally installed in an automatic equipped 'vette. Mine has a manual transmission.

Thanks.

[Joe L.]

Re: 1970 steering column

Just a quick question. Are there any differences between the steering column on a 1970 with an automatic transmission versus one with a manual transmission? My mechanic seemed to think that something about my steering column indicated that it was originally installed in an automatic equipped 'vette. Mine has a manual transmission.

Thanks.

Ken------


There is no difference between columns for 1970 Corvettes with either manual or automatic transmission. There is one component that is related to the column that's different, though. This is the transmission interlock cable which runs from the base of the column on the engine side to the transmission. These were different for manual or automatic transmission. However, this cable was not part of the steering column assembly. It was installed at St. Louis.

[Kenneth H.]

Re: 1970 steering column

Joe, thanks for the info. Now that I think about it, I remember him referencing the transmission interlock cable as a reason for his suspision. I think he said that the cable was consistent with an automatic transmission and that the cable wasn't attached to anything. So it sounds like the steering column is OK, but I need to reconfigure the cable and other equipment to make it correct and functional for the manual transmission. I'm assuming that this is the "theft deterrent steering interlock system" referenced on page 1 of the TIM&JG.

Thanks.

[Joe L.]

Re: 1970 steering column

Joe, thanks for the info. Now that I think about it, I remember him referencing the transmission interlock cable as a reason for his suspision. I think he said that the cable was consistent with an automatic transmission and that the cable wasn't attached to anything. So it sounds like the steering column is OK, but I need to reconfigure the cable and other equipment to make it correct and functional for the manual transmission. I'm assuming that this is the "theft deterrent steering interlock system" referenced on page 1 of the TIM&JG.

Thanks.

Ken------


I don't think you'll be able to modify an automatic cable for use with a manual transmission. Among other things, the length is considerably different. The manual transmission cable is available in reproduction.

[Kenneth H.]

Re: 1970 steering column

Joe, thanks for the info. I'll check around and purchase the proper cable.

Thanks.