Steering columns

[busterwivell]

My 56 has had a 605 box installed by P.O. It also has a later model steering column with the ignition switch in the column and no shifter. He obviously planned on a floor shifter for the TH 350. I would like to use a column with a shifter and no key...........any ideas where I can find something like that?

[Blackie]

I guess you could buy a stock automatic column and modify it for the 605 unit, ebay would be one area to look for it

another option is flaming river http://www.flaming-river.com/

or http://www.ididitinc.com/

instructions for conversion to a stock type column to a 605 http://www.classicperform.com/tech_articles/567-605-power-steering/tri-five-605.htm

[CLSSY56]

Don't forget ebay and an original column.

[acardon]

Ecklers will convert an original column for a 605 box. http://www.classicchevy.com/product.asp?pf%5Fid=53%2D400SVC&dept%5Fid=1714

[Bihili]

Danchuk started selling a new original shortened column.

http://www.danchuk.com/09_02_shortened_steering.html#4080

[Rick_L]

A 70s van column doesn't have a key and can be made to work. It's about the only practical swap from another vehicle.

[hotrod55]

I just removed the stock steering colummn and gearbox from my 55.It is a column shift for an automatic and is in very good condition, the 55 and 56 are the same. The gear box works fine I up graded to a IDIDIT column and power steering. I was going to put it on ebay,but if your interested let me know. I may be able to send a photo if give me your email

[henrys57wagon]

I used an 84 Monte tilt and shaved off the key knob as well as the shifter. Good day, Henry.
http://pic19.picturetrail.com/VOL1054/6190841/14153091/238202860.jpg
http://pic19.picturetrail.com/VOL1054/6190841/14153091/238191923.jpg

[busterwivell]

I was hoping for tilt........Is the Monte Carlo the right length and everything?
Anyone know if the Ididit columns are the same for 55, 56 and 57s?

[Chevynut]

I was hoping for tilt........Is the Monte Carlo the right length and everything?
Anyone know if the Ididit columns are the same for 55, 56 and 57s?

It's doubtful the Monte column is the right length, but it depends on how much you want behind your dash too. I moved my column as far forward as it would go because I don't like the steering wheel in my face.

Ididit and FR columns for 55 and 56 are the same, 57 is different.

http://www.flamingriver.com/index.cfm/page/ptype=results/Category_ID=170/home_id=62/mode=cat/cat170.htm

[busterwivell]

Thanks for the lead to FR.

[henrys57wagon]

The 84 Monte column is a tilt unit and is about the correct length for my 57. It clamps in the same bracket as the original column did, and I made my own bracket to mount it at the top using the 57 brake support assembly as the 57 column did. Good day, Henry.
http://pic19.picturetrail.com/VOL1054/6190841/12508793/289746527.jpg

[busterwivell]

Thanks, Henry..........that looks a lot like what is in my car now. In my case, I would just need one with a shifter to get the job done. Thanks again!
Bill

[acardon]

I'm useing a 70's van column, also. It had to be shortened, and a tab welded to the shift tube to operate the shift indicator. I also shortened the snout on the 57 dash cluster to get the wheel closer to the dash, but that's not a problem on a 56.
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid216/pa77c96b820c48c761df0c38d53c33fda/ec8ea0d4.jpg

[Old Buzzard]

In the "FWIW" dept: I got my modified/stock/automatic column, from Dbl Nickel. It included a modified lower brg, a splined shaft, rag joint, lower floor brkt. It is epoxy primed. I have to add the top end parts, such as horn, T/S sw, and collar, off my st shift column. The shift indicator registers in the Dakota Dash, so no on the column indicator is needed.
I think it was $199.00
I am using a late engine/4L60E trans, so I will use the LOKAR linkage kit, # ACA1800.
I have a Caddy, tilt, tele, w/ the shift indicator on it. I'll have to look to see what kind of shaft OD it has... Mite fit a 55, or a 57.. Not sure..It was the "in thing" when I did my other 55, in the late 80's... Not sure about that now..

[wraplock]

I've got a pretty complete automatic column with turn signal housing and guts from 55-56. It came with a steering wheel. The wheel needs crack repairs. I am not going to use it and will let it go for what I paid. PM me if your interested.

Don