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Topic: steering column replacement

in Forum: C3 Engines, Driveline and Handling


steering column replacement

Posted: 8/20/09 5:17am Message 1 of 6
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BILOXI, MS - USA
Joined: 12/8/2001
Posts: 547
Vette(s): 1969 rag top
I want to replace the steering column in my 69 with a tilt column, corvette central sells a flaming river column that would be an easy replace -- my question: i am thinking about replacing the column with a newer used column out of say a 79 so i could have the tilt and tele, i also believe the column is about 1.5" shorter in the later models (more jelly belly room) i realize this is not a easy replacement the cover on the column will need modification-the connectors would need to be changed - and i could leave the light dimmer in the column unused. does anyone know if this is a viable solution or am i just dreaming? what would you do?


Annicorvette
Lifetime member # 35

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steering column replacement

Posted: 8/20/09 7:51am Message 2 of 6
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Mounds View, MN - USA
Joined: 5/24/2007
Posts: 1031
Vette(s): 70 LT1 coupe, 69 350 HP coupe, 69 390HP 427 coupe, 71 LS5 convert, 85 coupe, 93 coupe
I believe you just listed the challenges.  Length isn't a concern since you will have tele, and the connector can be easily redone, so all that leaves is the cover, which I am sure you can figure out, even if you have to fabricate something.

And the new columns are a lot cheaper!

Larry



steering column replacement

Posted: 8/20/09 8:19am Message 3 of 6
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BILOXI, MS - USA
Joined: 12/8/2001
Posts: 547
Vette(s): 1969 rag top
The tele would be for someone who doesn't have my jelly belly.


Annicorvette
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steering column replacement

Posted: 8/20/09 10:08am Message 4 of 6
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Manteca, CA - USA
Joined: 11/20/2005
Posts: 3623
Vette(s): 1978,two tone,Metalic Rootbeer & gold 1975 L48 4 speed
The tilt/telescoping is definately a nice option.


steering column replacement

Posted: 8/20/09 11:15am Message 5 of 6
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Oklahoma City, OK - USA
Joined: 4/1/2007
Posts: 432
Vette(s): 1972 LS5 Convertible,Auto.Targa Blue with Black Interior.
I swapped mine out about a year ago. I bought a rebuilt one from Corvel in Denver. It took me about 1/2 a day...replaced the rag joint while I was at it. It is so much nicer getting in and out and just having the options.


steering column replacement

Posted: 8/20/09 1:03pm Message 6 of 6
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Leavenworth, KS - USA
Joined: 1/24/2007
Posts: 426
Vette(s): MM Red 1971 T-top,LS5,4-speed, black leather C5 seats, Hooker sidepipes. Previous: 64 Coupe, 65 Roadster L76 / N14
It can be done (usually for the reason you listed).  Nice addition is the dimmer on the column.  I have the plans somewhere, so I'll look for it to pass on.  Plans walk you through curring down the cover. Great mod if you're a big guy.  I love the tilt/tele.


in Forum: C3 Engines, Driveline and Handling


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