Adjusting Steering Column Length
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 111
Likes: 6
From: Lakewood CO
Adjusting Steering Column Length
Question concerns a stock 1965 non-tele steering column. I finally determined that some where in its history the steering column has been moved aft approx. 2 inches so the lower splined section only inserts into the rag joint about half an inch.
I've studied the pictures on the forum and in various catalogs and would like to shove the column deeper into the rag joint. Could someone walk me through the steps in loosening the various clamps? Looks fairly straight forward, but am I in any danger of getting the various bearings and bushings out of position. Also, what is the correct paint for refinishing the column tube and the hub just forward of the steering wheel? Thanks again.
I've studied the pictures on the forum and in various catalogs and would like to shove the column deeper into the rag joint. Could someone walk me through the steps in loosening the various clamps? Looks fairly straight forward, but am I in any danger of getting the various bearings and bushings out of position. Also, what is the correct paint for refinishing the column tube and the hub just forward of the steering wheel? Thanks again.
Race Director
Joined: Apr 1999
Posts: 10,866
Likes: 717
From: Beverly Hills/Pine Ridge Florida
I have my 63 shoved all the way in. 
I'm a big guy, 6'4", 240 # and need the room.
Loosen the clamps and push it in. I'm unaware of any potential problems you could cause.
Don't forget to loosen the clamp under the dash too. Use a 12 point socket to loosen the 12 point bolts on the rag joint. Chuck
I'm a big guy, 6'4", 240 # and need the room.Loosen the clamps and push it in. I'm unaware of any potential problems you could cause.
Don't forget to loosen the clamp under the dash too. Use a 12 point socket to loosen the 12 point bolts on the rag joint. Chuck
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 14,619
Likes: 4,671
From: Mustang OK
2026 Corvette of the Year Finalist - Modified
2025 c1 of the Year - Modified Winner
2024 C1 of the Year Finalist - Modified
2023 C1 of the Year Finalist - Modified
2015 C1 of the Year Finalist
Yep, basically that's it. There is the bolt at the rag joint (steering shaft side of rag joint) to be loosened and then the clamp on the column tube (engine side of firewall), as well as the clamp under dash, needs to be loosened. You MAY need to shoot a little WD40, or some kind of light lubricant, on the splines. Then just gently shove the whole thing toward the dash and re-tighten everything. You're done. Too easy.
