Steering column questions...

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RSie

RSie

Idiot In Training
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Hello all,
I'm planning on putting the steering column from a 74 Dart into my 69 Cuda. The steering box,k-frame, brakes, as well as the whole front inner clip (inner fenders, frame rails, torsion support) are going into it as well. (basically, the whole front end of the Dart, steering brakes, etc).
I was thinking about repainting the column to match my car, from the tan color to red. I was going to ask if there is anything I should look at rebuilding while I'm doing that. My budget for it is approximately 0.00$. That said, I don't want to have to pull it out again a year from now to redo something I could have easily done now for under 50 bucks.
Thinking of doing this got me thinking of something else though. I think the Cuda has a dash mounted key switch, and the Dart has it on the column (I think.. not looking at either one.. it's damn cold out there!). What do I have to do with regards to wiring?
Thanks in advance!
 
I think you would be saving money and time to make it work with your steering but you didn't say why you want to. Do you have the 74s wiring harness? Nice Cuda!
 
Yes, WHY? Yes anything built 70 and after is locking column, except some trucks

If you really want a locking column, the wiring would be easy IF you get enough of the later model to have the connector. All you need do is look at both diagrams, and I/ we can walk you through that

Also the TS connector is different you will have to deal with that

I will admit, lol, that is one way to establish a tiny bit of security for anti theft.....darn little
 
A little more info: the Cuda has manual steering, the Dart front end I'm putting has power (and I want the power steering.. a little more wife friendly). My plan was to change the column to match the steering box. Can I just change the shaft to the Cuda column? That way I wouldn't have to worry about wiring. I do have everything from the Dart. I'd rather keep the switch in the dash.. not worried about the lock. Thanks everybody!
 
That's exactly what to do, move the shaft with box coupling from 74 column to 69 column. I'm not the only member who has been there done that. I would replace both bearings and might rebuild the box coupling while I'm at it. I had no idea the upper bearing in my 67 column was crusty and roared before I could spin the steering wheel at the workbench. Never noticed in use in the car.
My donor 73 power steering box coupling didn't have excessive wear but some... renewed it. All good for another 40 years.
You'll find another issue at 69 bumper mount/bolts to those later model frame rails but that's another thread.
 
Thanks RedFish! That will be my plan. Where can I get the bearings? Also, I lucked out with the bumper mounts, the '74 has both mount setups on the rails (I think, looks like the holes are there).
 
RSie said:
Thanks RedFish! That will be my plan. Where can I get the bearings? Also, I lucked out with the bumper mounts, the '74 has both mount setups on the rails (I think, looks like the holes are there).
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My experience was back in late 80s ( no Google ). Ordered my parts through local dealership.
Your OEM frame rails have nuts welded in behind the bumper bracket holes. I don't think you'll find that in the late model frame rails for shock bumpers. I've been wrong before. There are ways to overcome all the differences. Members here have been there done that too.
 
I did a PS swap in my Dart. Are you running headers?......

Isn't the 73-up PS box large selector? I though they also used a different center link than the 72-down?
 
dano said:
I did a PS swap in my Dart. Are you running headers?......

Isn't the 73-up PS box large selector? I though they also used a different center link than the 72-down?
Click to expand...
yeah the later model steering components are different including the box coupling fit to steering gear but... If he's using later K member, steering linkage, everything... it will bolt right in.
 
RedFish said:
yeah the later model steering components are different including the box coupling fit to steering gear but... If he's using later K member, steering linkage, everything... it will bolt right in.
Click to expand...
Exactly.. everything from the '74 Dart is going into the Cuda as a unit. Gives me big ball joints, big bolt pattern, spool motor mounts, power steering, etc. Added bonus is the '74 had recent new ball joints and big sway bar. I didn't want to mess around with mixing and matching stuff. Even with having to bash the old column/shaft with the 'new', it makes it easy. (well, easier lol).
 
dano said:
I did a PS swap in my Dart. Are you running headers?......

Isn't the 73-up PS box large selector? I though they also used a different center link than the 72-down?
Click to expand...
The engine in it now has headers, but they are pretty well shot. There was a new pair in the trunk when I bought it, but I haven't researched what they are... might not even be for a mopar, lol. I'm not sure if I'll go with headers or stock manifolds yet.
 
I've found bearings at MOPAR PERFORMANCE STEERING PARTS
They list an upper and lower... kinda spendy if I need both at $200.00 or so. I'll look around some more, but this is the kind of stuff I hate... the little spendy parts you never think about, lol. That said, I'd rather do it right when I have it apart, than have to go back and tear it out again... and steering and brakes I won't skimp on. I'd rather wait and have it safe.
 
Maybe you have good reusable bearings. My experience surely isn't typical. No idea why the bearing in my example had rusted. I have another 67 column collar here. All but 3 of the balls are gone from that upper bearing. Evaluate what you have then shop for best prices on needed items.
 
I'll take a look at it this weekend if I get the time. I did see another thread on here where they replaced the bearing with an off the shelf generic bearing.. might look into that if they are bad. Thanks for the help and input, Redfish!
 
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