1966 p/s conversion
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Senior User
Joined: Mar 2001
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1966 p/s conversion
I have a 1966 f100 that i am converting to p/s and disc brakes. I have done this before but i want to retain the original steering column this time.The question I have is how do I do this. I have been told to just swap out the steering shaft for the p/s shaft but will the 66 steering wheel boly back on as I think yhe splines are different. I will appreciate any help. Thanks
Elder User
Joined: Dec 2000
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1966 p/s conversion
This is a real popular conversion. Your best bet is to find a up-to 1979 Ford parts truck that has PS and the automatic column, disc brakes,a nd anything else you need. Check all the past posts on this popular topic for more info. The splines on the 65-79 pickup steering boxes are the same, I did this conversion to my truck with no major problems..
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Senior User
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1966 p/s conversion
The p/s box is from a 73 f100. I am keeping the original floor mounted 4spd. That is why I want to retain the original column as it has no shifter provisions on it and will look factory.:P
New User
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 22
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From: Molalla USA
1966 p/s conversion
You could use the factory power steering from a 65 to 69 truck with the BENDIX steering gear. this will let you retain your original column and you use the original center shaft.
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jun 1999
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From: Creedmoor, North Carolina
1966 p/s conversion
Chris, I don't know where your donor is but you will need to pull the steering wheel anyway, you can test fit the wheel to new shaft to see if it will fit. I have one at my shop that I could test if I could just remember to do it for you.
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John
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Fleet Owner
Joined: Jun 1999
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From: Creedmoor, North Carolina
1966 p/s conversion
Chris, I got a chance to test the different columns today. This is what I found. The 66 wheel that I have will fit on the 76 ps column shaft. The 76 shaft is 1/2" longer from the splines to the end of the shaft than the 66 non ps shaft. The wheel will fit but the horn button will not. You can use the wheel from the donor truck in yours. I have the 76 wheel in my 66. I don't care what anybody else thinks about the looks as long as it is a one finger turn. 
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Elder User
Joined: Dec 2000
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1966 p/s conversion
I had to cut a couple of the threads from my '72 shaft to get the original wheel and horn button to fit. I couldn't get the horn to work, so I used the former wiper washer button as a horn button, as I also converted my '66 to the dual speed wipers & switch.
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Senior User
Joined: Mar 2001
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From: Magnolia,TX
1966 p/s conversion
I did this conversion and I have pictures to back it up. I installed a later year shaft cut the threads off reinstalled original wheel and horn button it looks great. E-mail me at huitt24(No Email Addresses In Posts!) if you want the pictures.
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Fleet Owner
Joined: Jun 1999
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From: Creedmoor, North Carolina
1966 p/s conversion
Without testing, my gut feeling is that if you cut the 1/2" or so off the end it should work. Testing could prove different.
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John
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Logistics Pro
Joined: Feb 2000
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From: Sun River St. George
1966 p/s conversion
Chris, Cut about 1/2 inches off the upper end of the replacement shaft and you will be able to use the original steering wheel and the horn will work. Get a new blade in the hack saw, run the retaining nut on and use it as a guide, saw that shaft off. The original shift collar (with out provision for the shift lever) and your top bearing retainer/turn signal mount will bolt on to the top of the replacement column. Move the dash clamp from the 66 column by drilling out the tack welds and re-weld it to the replacement column. Add a little paint and you will have a column that works and looks bone stock. Plan on replacing the lower bearing in the replacement column. I use the upper bearing of the original column, these are usually in good shape. I also install a new T/S switch, horn brush, floor gasket and one of the new plastic rag joints from Ford while I'm in there. Use lithium grease on the bearings.
William in Atlanta
William in Atlanta
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Senior User
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1966 p/s conversion
Thanks for all the good info on this.I have the donor truck here at the house [1973]. I am not sure whether I willuse the steering wheel out of it or out of the 66.Jowilker does the later model steering wheel match up ok on the 66 column.This is not going to be any kind of show truck just a fun daily driver.I do not want a aftermarket steering wheel in it as they are always too small for me .Had one in my 79 4wd and hated it.
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jun 1999
Posts: 24,552
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From: Creedmoor, North Carolina
1966 p/s conversion
Chris, You may call me John, my mother does. I swapped the total column with wheel in my truck. I will be pulling it shortly to put a tilt setup in (more belly room). If I remember correctly the fit is simular. If you have both just get out the ol pullers and see for yourself.
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John
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In the cool still quiet of night, you can hear chevies rusting away.
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John
jowilker email me
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[link:www.ford-trucks.net/users/jowilker/NCFTE.html|NCFTO] North Carolina Ford Truck Owners Group
In the cool still quiet of night, you can hear chevies rusting away.
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Senior User
Joined: Mar 2001
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1966 p/s conversion
Well things have possibly changed. The engine that is in the 66 has a cracked piston.{300 6 cyl}.I bought the truck not running.I think I may start to look for a V8 and auto tranny in which case I will just use the entire 73 column.Thanks for all the info as it has helped in my fathers 65 ford truck.This is a great site.Any ideas on the prices of a good V8 and auto.I live in n.c. about 25 minutes from fayetteville.I think I would probably be in good shape if I can find an old lincoln with a 460.Any suggestions?