I'm wondering what steering column options are out there that will allow me to keep the factory wheel with a PS conversion? Anything with a tilt available without auto?

 

Your factory 18" 4 spoke steering wheel will likely not fit on any aftermarket steering columns or the column out of anything else I can think of. The bowl size is substantially larger than anything modern.

But, you could go with a power-assist system. They use a power steering pump like most systems, but instead of changing out the steering gearbox, the power-assist system moves the drag link directly so you keep everything as is and just add the assist.

Ford used them on some trucks but I think they had a reputation for leaking, at least the early ones in the 1970's. An aftermarket solution might not be a bad way to go. Not suggesting this one, per se, but here's what they look like so you get the idea. They can work very well. My buddy with the light blue Ford truck that I've posted pictures of has used a ram assist system for years and years. You wouldn't know he didn't have power steering - because he does.

https://www.4wheelparts.com/Brakes-S...BoChp0QAvD_BwE

Chad

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Here's a picture of what they show on one page in the 1973-1979 MPC. This is the RAM assist cylinder used on 1973-1976 4x4 trucks.



Chad

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I was wondering if I could go to an early 70's column with some mods to the lower end? I've heard of shortening the stock column when doing a PS box conversion but wondered if there was a close to bolt in column that fit the four spoke wheel. Tilt would be nice but not required.

 

All of the early/mid/late 70's Ford trucks used the smaller steering wheel with the smaller bowl size on the column, similar to the size of the 1965/66 2WD trucks.

If you aren't keeping it stock at all why worry about the 18" steering wheel? They used the larger size wheel to give the driver more leverage but with P/S you shouldn't need the extra leverage.

Trying to mix/match your steering wheel with a power steering column from another truck - could be tricky.

Chad

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I guess I just like the look of my 18" four spoke wheel and being a little more unique appeals to me as well. I like drive ability upgrades with an original look.

I came across this last night.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/61-62-63-64...19.m1438.l2649

Ebay seller tells me it will work on my 4x4 if I move the gear lower on the frame to clear the clutch linkage. Seems kind of doubtful to me. Any idea what box they might be using in that location? Is that a 61-64 2wd PS box perhaps?

 

That might be the best option for me if I ever want to go to PS.

 

Tilt wheel columns were only available in '78/'79 Dentside trucks, Broncos and E-series vans. No tilt wheel columns in the trucks before then. The van tilt wheel column is longer than one for an F-series/full-sized Bronco.

These columns were primarily for automatic transmissions but, there were some for floor-shifted manuals, without a shift lever on the side of the column.

 

"Generic" pic in parts catalog cannot be taken as gospel. It shows 1973/76, but...

1973/75 F100 4WD's & 1975 F150 4WD's were available with Garrison Power Assist P/S.

1976 F100 4WD's and 1976/79 F150 4WD's were available with Ford integral P/S. No F100 4WD's after 1976.

1973/76 F250 4WD's and 1977 F250 4WD's before serial number Y20,001 were available with Power Assist P/S, but there were two totally different types.

With one exception (3C590 ram mounting kit), all the F100 & F250 Power Assist P/S parts are obsolete. Some are available NOS, but be prepared for "sticker" shock.
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I doubt this ebay P/S conversion will work on the OP's 1965 F100 4WD, due to the 4WD and the 1961/64 engine sizes.

1961/64's came with either a 223 I-6 or 292. 1965/66's came with 240/300 I-6 & 352.

I don't recognize the P/S gear, it's not from any Ford.

The P/S pump is the Saginaw (resembles a "canned ham"). Saginaw (owned by GM) pumps were used on many different auto makers vehicles.

FoMoCo: 1972/79 FoMoCo Passenger Cars with Hydro-Boost and 1975 and later Econolines.

 

Good to know. I've always been around F250s more than F100s. Here's a few pictures of Dad's 1976 F250 4x4 Ranger XLT. This one had a nice cloth upholstery on the seat. Good lookin' truck in my opinion.

He bought this after he sold the 1970 F250 Crew Cab that he had bought new.







Chad

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Electric p/s is another option for you. You need 6" of column, and that is available with a floor-shift column, on my 2wd '66 at least.
Eric

 

Geez Chad you keep hiding pictures of your dad's past from us. Post all the pics or the cat gets it!

 

How far back can I go?

If you like those so far you gotta like these - over hunting - here's my Grandfathers new 1957 (he's coming out of the tent in the background). Check out the nice mirrors!



and also my Dad's used 1954 next to the 1957 - taken in 1957.



And Granddad at Westport holding a nice big King salmon in front of his 1957 circa 1966. Notice the different mirrors he had on it here.



Chad

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Cool pictures Chad. I enjoyed some you have posted in the build thread for your dads 70 crew cab. But I think I have you beat with this one.

Dad in his 32 modal A about 1955 I think. Playing an old piece of the McKinsey pass Wagon road.

 

Beautiful truck and scenery. Excellent!

Chad

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