I have a mustang 2 on my 56 and I am kind of confused on how the rack hooks up to the steering column. First, I need to get a steering column, obviously, but it looks like a very sharp angle to the rack. Suggestions would be appreciated. I want a cheap clean look in the cab and would like to find a donor rather that buying a new aftermarket column.

 

Usually with two needle bearing joints and shafts. Do an internet search and you will find tons of pictures.

 

AA,
whether you use aftermarket or one from a pull-a-part... the connection is pretty much the same.... universal joints with or without intermediate shafts and support bearings...

here's an article I did on mine with an Ididit column but I used the same u-joints with a previous Caddy column... keep us posted..

http://jniolon.classicpickup.com/col...columnin_a.htm

later, John

 

You can get unisteer parts that mate to the rack and to the column. It will most likely be a 3/4"-36 spline for your steering rack (there are charts to help pick out your correct pinion shaft for identification)

What column are you planning on using? Stock style/GM/Ididit/Flaming River etc?

Most aftermarket will be a GM style and will most likely have a 3/4 DD shaft (looks like a round shaft with 2 flat sides)

Usually a joint will either go to 30 or 38 degrees for safe operation. You can get a double jointed shaft and go up to 70 degrees. If you have more than 2 joints from the rack to the steering column you will need a support hyme joint to stop the setup from binding or excessive play)


http://www.jegs.com/images/photos/60...68-8050940.gif


http://www.jegs.com/photos/ujointtypes.gif

http://static.speedwaymotors.com/RS/.../9103225_L.jpg

Summit Racing/Jegs/Speedway Motorsports and other companies all have these joints. They are $40-$200 each, so do your research first and plan it out.

There are some cheaper ones on Ebay as well. I picked up a few for mock up and dont have high hopes but I will see the quality when they arrive in the next few days

 

Borgeson has info on most steering components in their catalog. Diameters, spline counts, etc. You can design your own column, or give them a call. You may be able to find their part numbers with some of the parts vendors and save money. It's still expensive though.

 

The universal joints will give a good solid, reliable connection. But if your interior is very quiet you may want to look at rag joints (rag joint from Speedway Motors, America's Oldest Speed Shop).

 

Rag joints do not allow as great a shaft angle as a U-joint. Download the Borgeson catalog or view it online, there is an extensive section in it on design and specs. most M II installs require an intermediate shaft with 2 U joints both to eliminate over angle bind and for header clearance. A single intermediate shaft with 2 U joints should not have a support on the intermediate shaft. When using 2 joints, be sure they are phased correctly (also covered in the Borgeson catalog tech section) on the intermediate shaft. Use only high quality needle bearing U joints. Steering is not the place to try to save a few bucks!