I can't remember if I would have changed out the automatic steering column on my 67 F100 when I converted over to power steering 35 years ago. I used the parts from a 72 F250 w/ Ford box. The current steering wheel distance is just fine. Seems there was a length issue, like one was longer than the other.

My reason for asking is I need to change out the lower bearing and find different part numbers between 67 and 72. I am not sure which one I have. Does anyone know if there is a column length difference?

 

When I changed my 70 F100 over to power steering about 13 or 14 years ago, I had to change the steering column in order to mate properly with the gearbox. I actually used an automatic column. Mine was a three speed column shift, since converted to 4 speed floor shift.

 

The power steering gear box is taller than a manual one, therefore the column is shorter.
As such, I'd guess you got the column from the same donor as the steering gear.

 

The column is not shorter for power steering, just the shaft.

 

Thanks guys, it is all coming back to me now - the taller box required the shorter shaft. I used the guts from the donor but kept my outer tube so I did not have to repaint it.
Been a great truck since 1969 when I bought it from original owner. it is still my daily driver

 

Where did you find Ford part numbers/applications that said the lower bearings are different? Not from the '64/72 Ford Truck Parts Catalog, as you can see:

C3DZ-3517-A .. Steering Column Bearing / Available from Ford.

1965/72 F100/250 2WD upper & lower / 1965/70 F100/250 4WD upper / 1967/72 F350 upper & lower.

Bendix P/S: 1966/68 F100/250 2WD / 1969 F100/250 2WD before serial numnber D96,001.

** Ford P/S: 1969 F100/250 2WD & F350 from serial number D96,001 / 1970/79 F100/250 2WD & F350 / 1976 F100 4WD / 1976/79 F150 4WD / 1977 F250 4WD (not a High Boy) & 1978/79 F250 4WD.

 

Bill, you are absolutely right. I was reading the LMC catalog and with your info I realized I was looking at the part # for the lower column bearing seal. Also with the part # you provided I found that I had a new bearing in my parts supply. Thank you. Your knowledge is invaluable.