Steering column modification

[RealWing]

I'm about to cut back the outer tube of my steering column to provide more room for the headers on a "69 Cuda with a 6.1 L Hemi and AlterKtion suspension, but wondered what others had done with the inner tube. Did you cut it as well or just remove it altogether?

 

[Tincup]

You will probably need to remove that to gain adequate clearance.

 

[Coronet 500]

On my B body shaft I removed it, welded two tabs on the outer to clamp a 2"x1" ball bearing to support the steering shaft. I'd guess it might work on an A shaft.

 

[Oldmanmopar]

You will need the inner tube at the top. I have cut back plenty for installation of 383 motors . If you cut tis back to the firewall 70 - 71 HP manifolds fit right on. But Not 67, 68 or 69 The flange bolts are at and opposite angle and they will not fit. But to answer your question the inner tube holds the column together at the top inside.

 

[RealWing]

You will need the inner tube at the top. I have cut back plenty for installation of 383 motors . If you cut tis back to the firewall 70 - 71 HP manifolds fit right on. But Not 67, 68 or 69 The flange bolts are at and opposite angle and they will not fit. But to answer your question the inner tube holds the column together at the top inside.

Thanks

I chopped 2.25" off the inner tube as well. I see that the inner tube fits inside the lower bearing plastic housing.

 

[RealWing]

Tubes shortened and reassembled. The in-car photo shows the tube length before cutting.

 

[rapidtransitric]

looks like you handled that without a problem

 

[69DarttoArt]

What is the easiest way to get the stock (3 bolt hole cover) off the steering column, I need it to cover the hole?
We are using an Iditit column, but I still need to use the stock cover plate, and was hoping to not trash the original column.

 

[Oldmanmopar]

take off the two bolts on the inside. It should slide right off. It is pinch sealed on by a thick rubber Gasket between the two pieces, Steve