Steering column length

[oldIron]

OK guys I did a search and went through tech but I can't find exactly what I need. I have a 71 apart in the garage and I am going to go GM tilt and Mini power steering conversion. My issue is the length of the tilt column from wheel to rag joint. If I measure the shaft on the 71 from wheel to box I get roughly 36", but I think the one piece out of a 71 might be longer due to no rag joint etc.

Can anyone run a quick measurement from the rag joint to the wheel on their 40 who have done the mini truck box conversion? I would be greatly appreciative. I realize there is probably some room to play with but I would like to get close out of the gate. Thanks guys.

 

[PabloCruise]

Sorry, I pulled the clolumn on my '78 - different design.

If you want to see pics of that column compared to a 55 column, they are in my 60 series PS thread...

 

[bj42turbo]

One other thing to consider although may not be relevent. There is a differance in length on a non power steered 40, and a OEM power steered so i found out when converting mine

BJ

 

[oldIron]

Ok guys, I am looking at a Flaming River 35" column. Anyone have any insight on the overall length with a mini box conversion? I was going to go with an 28" but I do not think that will even get me outside the fire wall. I am hoping I can bolt the rag joint from the mini right to the rag joint on the column. If I go with a 30 or 32, whichever gets me outside the firewall I don't think it will be worth trying to put an intermadiate shaft for only a few inches. Anyone???

 

[el_diabolico]

I believe it also depends on the mini box bracket you use. I got mine from bbalbano (sp?) here on mud. Great bracket. I cut the column shaft on my '71 right at the flare above the worm gear for starters. I ended up cutting another 3.5" off the shaft prior to welding the rag joint adapter.

 

[oldIron]

I believe it also depends on the mini box bracket you use. I got mine from bbalbano (sp?) here on mud. Great bracket. I cut the column shaft on my '71 right at the flare above the worm gear for starters. I ended up cutting another 3.5" off the shaft prior to welding the rag joint adapter.

Sounds good thanks for the info.