69 Steering Column Replacement
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Sep 2023
Posts: 28
Likes: 9
69 Steering Column Replacement
Hi Guys,
I'm considering replacing my steering column with one that can tilt (telescope would be nice also) to give a little more room in the drivers area. I have found MANY different columns that say they'd fit my 69 convertible with a floor shift BUT they come in many different sizes ranging from 28 inches to 32 inches. I'm not really interested in cutting holes or building my own brackets and was looking for any information and recommendations from those who have dared doing this. A popular, but expensive, one comes from Ididit but even they have 6 different models that say they'd fit...
Any advice before I try and go down this road???
Thanks!!
I'm considering replacing my steering column with one that can tilt (telescope would be nice also) to give a little more room in the drivers area. I have found MANY different columns that say they'd fit my 69 convertible with a floor shift BUT they come in many different sizes ranging from 28 inches to 32 inches. I'm not really interested in cutting holes or building my own brackets and was looking for any information and recommendations from those who have dared doing this. A popular, but expensive, one comes from Ididit but even they have 6 different models that say they'd fit...
Any advice before I try and go down this road???
Thanks!!
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2021
Posts: 240
Likes: 82
From: Pittsburgh, Pa. da 'burg
The steering system is one where I, personally, would not veer away from GM parts meant for the '69 Corvette. I would never modify the steering installation to accommodate an aftermarket steering column. You're addressing a key safety system here.
I would first get a 1969 Production Manual to see what parts GM used to create the steering system.
If I wanted to install a tilt/tele wheel, I would purchase one from a reputable NCRS rebuilder that advertises in the NCRS Driveline. I had my standard column rebuilt by a gentleman that has been doing them for many years, and he advertises in the Driveline. His work is beautiful, and I trust his work fully.
I would NEVER modify under dash brackets, etc. to accommodate and aftermarket column. Just my 02
I would first get a 1969 Production Manual to see what parts GM used to create the steering system.
If I wanted to install a tilt/tele wheel, I would purchase one from a reputable NCRS rebuilder that advertises in the NCRS Driveline. I had my standard column rebuilt by a gentleman that has been doing them for many years, and he advertises in the Driveline. His work is beautiful, and I trust his work fully.
I would NEVER modify under dash brackets, etc. to accommodate and aftermarket column. Just my 02
Safety Car
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 3,691
Likes: 833
From: WI
I would never modify the steering installation to accommodate an aftermarket steering column.
Is the 28-32" column factoring in the telescoping adjustment?
I'm curious ...Why can't you measure and match the size you currently have? Worst case wait a couple months when you go to winter storage and just remove your car's column. Then match it then. If you buy a used one, the tilt side pins (where the 'tilt' happens), should be check that they are in position, or replaced with oversized pins (if needed). There's a heavy spring inside the tilt mechanism which puts pressure mostly on one of the side pins. Sometimes the pin works out. And sometimes over years of minor vibration and heavy spring pressure, it eggs-out the bore where the tilt pin goes (hence the oversize pin). The purpose of the spring is so if you were to pull the tilt lever the steering wheel doesn't drop like a rock onto your lap. So the spring does both good and negative things.
Getting the bottom bolts out is a real joy. And you'll get a chance to get creative with various lengths of socket extensions and swivels (plural).
Last edited by Mark G; Aug 14, 2024 at 12:10 AM.
