Steering Column Problems

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Jun 26, 2003 | 02:29 AM

cashs66

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Joined: Jun 2003

Posts: 29

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Steering Column Problems

I just bought a 1966 F100 with a custom cab. The steering coupler is totally shot and I've ordered a replacement. When the coupler failed the PO kept right on driving and wiped out the pin keeper slots in round plate on the bottom end of the steering column. I intend on replacing the column but do not as yet have a repair manual (my local parts stores don't have manuals that go back that far) so I need help in removing the column. How do you remove the horn push and ring? I assume that once the horn push is removed the steering wheel nut will be exposed and once the wheel is pulled, I can remove the upper column casing clamp, drop the casing and pull the column out the bottom (I've already removed the coupler at the bottom of the column).
My plan is to find a replacement column at a local wrecking yard unless a new one is available - ideas?

Jun 26, 2003 | 06:07 AM

captcarstop

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Joined: Mar 2003

Posts: 200

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From: dundalk md

Steering Column Problems

hello,

I can not help on the Horn, but as for the column:

Is the steering power or manual?
If it is manual, any manual steering equipped truck from 65-79 can donate it's column.

If it is power Steering, is it the Bendix gearbox or Ford Gearbox?
If it is the Bendix, Use the 65-79 manual steering column as the Bendix Gearbox was the same size as the Manual Gearbox. If it is the Ford gearbox, Use a column from a PS equipped 65-79 truck with a Ford PS gearbox. (the Ford gearbox was about 2" longer than The Bendix, and the column was shortened that much).

The only new column I think you can find would be an aftermarket custom job, and will probally rub $300+.

Ron

Jun 26, 2003 | 09:07 AM

William

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Joined: Feb 2000

Posts: 3,565

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From: Sun River St. George

Steering Column Problems

Disconnect the battery ground cable at the battery post. Push down and twist to the left on the horn push and it will come off. Easier would be to remove the two bolts holding the colum to the dash, the bolts and clamp on the firewall plate and the screws on the column seal inside on the floor. Unplug the wiring harness and disconnect the shift linkage. Take the column over to your work bench and have at it. Sounds like you will need a new colum. 65-79 fit and if you get lucky you may snag a tilt. If you are going to convert to PS now would be the time since the manual steer columns are longer than the PS. The upper bearing is the same as the lower (your lower is long gone), and can be swapped around and they are available aftermarket. If you have the extra bucks it would be easier to install a new column from Ididit or Flaming river. Save the clamp that holds the column to the dash (drill the welds) and re use it on any 67-69 colum for a perfect original fit. There is more so post back with specific questions. Oh yea! Buy a steering wheel puller, get a cheap one you don't usese these very often.

Jun 26, 2003 | 01:05 PM

cashs66

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Joined: Jun 2003

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Steering Column Problems

Thank you for your responses. I've learned a lot in a short time. I do not have power steering and am going to retain the original steering configuration. I mis-stated the problem by saying that my steering column was damaged by the failed coupling. It was actually the round plate on the bottom of the steering shaft. I now know how to extract the shaft.