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Tilt steering upgrade

Discussion in 'Early CJ5 and CJ6 Tech' started by speedbuggy, Jul 26, 2004.

  1. Jul 26, 2004
    speedbuggy

    speedbuggy Looking for a Jeep now

    Living the Good...
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    I have been told that I can upgrade the steering column in my 5 to a late(r) model Camaro or Firebird tilt column.

    Has anyone done this?

    What is the degree of difficulty?

    What, if any, adapter kits, etc would I need?

    Trying to get my 'ducks in a row' for this project and need some hints or suggestions.

    Thanks!
     
  2. Jul 26, 2004
    TheBeav1955

    TheBeav1955 Member

    Wyoming, Mi
    Joined:
    Apr 14, 2004
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    296
    I converted mine a 72 to a newer Jeep column Not sure what it was out of. The things I ran into were new column was too long had to shorten by about 8" also I had to make a conversion piece for the steering shaft. The new one was almost an inch in diameter and the old linkage was about 5/8". But Its great much easier to get in and more comfortable to drive.
     
  3. Jul 26, 2004
    James P. Enderwies

    James P. Enderwies Sponsor

    Lake Havasu City, AZ
    Joined:
    Feb 2, 2003
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    747
    Dennis: The PO put in a 70's something Cherokee tilt column in mine--a GM tilt column. Only problem was that it was a POS he got from "somewhere". It worked fine, but got "real" sloppy in the tilt mechanism. This is a common problem with GM columns that can be fixed by Locktite-ing the 4 adjusting screws in BEFORE you install it. Other than than, they are fine columns. The late 60's to early 70's Camero/Firebird columns will fit fine. They are about 30" in length.

    Four weeks ago I just had mine replaced with a "Flaming River" tilt column with new u-joints and shaft. MUCH better. The "FR" column was about 50 bucks more than a new GM column and has none of the "tilt" problems that the GM one has. But, they use the GM turn signal mechanism which is good and easily obtainable at any auto parts store. Sort of the best of both worlds.

    My advice? If you can get a decent GM column (about 30" in length or so), great. Just rebuild it before you put it in to fix problems down the road. If you want to spend a few more $$--get a Flaming River column.
     
  4. Jul 26, 2004
    speedbuggy

    speedbuggy Looking for a Jeep now

    Living the Good...
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    Thanks Jim-
    I looked into the FR columns today. It just so happens FR is about 45 minutes from my house so I will be able to go there and talk to them. I am hoping that they will be able to set me up with what I need to complete the task at home.

    I was curios to see if there was any problems encountered by anyone who has replaced their column. Kind of a heads up as to what to ask for when I am there...
     
  5. Jul 27, 2004
    James P. Enderwies

    James P. Enderwies Sponsor

    Lake Havasu City, AZ
    Joined:
    Feb 2, 2003
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    747
    Dennis: If you don't mind spending the extra $$, a Flaming River will do you fine. They are a real "quality" column and finely made. All the "Rods" here have them. Their shafts and u-joints are top quality too.
     
  6. Jul 29, 2004
    oakesmi2

    oakesmi2 New Member

    Flagstaff, AZ
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