Replacement steering columns
 

Ok here is the stupid question of the day regrading tilt steering columns.
First off the issues:
Just like the other post regarding the gear shift handle fitment, the feature on my column is worn, my tilt is worn and wobbly, the internal horn and turn signal wiring is worn, the turn signal cam assembly is cracked and needs to be replaced.
Ok you get the point.
I can buy just about everything and repair it but aside from the turn signal cam assembly and wiring I believe I’d have to pull the column to replace said wiring along with the rubber grommet at the gauge cluster where it mounts to the dash.
Even doing so I would still have the issues with the column length, a couple inches shorter would be nice albeit not needed.

My questions:
With so many different columns available, varying in price from $250-$1000 WHAT TILT COLUMNS ARE THE BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK AND WHICH SHOULD I AVOID?
Every reproduction seller, LMC, Classic, Holley, IDIDIT, Flaming River, etc. has them, heck even Amazon even sells them.
They’re all wired with neutral safety wiring, new turn signal cams etc. I’ve replaced just about everything on this K10 to keep it looking stock, so repro parts are ok by me. I just need a good steering column that isn’t sloppy and will last until I decide to build a K5.

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

I didn't use a column shift but I've used Ididt tilt steering columns and have worked well on my hot rod projects.
Couple of pics.

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

Rebuild your original. Relocate neutral safety switch. Shorten intermediate shaft and repin it no problems. Just my two bits.

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

Van and RV columns are a dime a dozen. RV columns are generally like new on the shift lever and tilt mechanism. Use those parts as donors to renew yours. Can't beat a genuine GM column.

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

I don't have a tilt steering column but I sent my non-tilt column to a fellow forum member to have him rebuild and shorten it and that was the best deal for me.

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

There are a few guys on the board that refurbish the orig. tilt columns, whether it be for floor shift or column shift auto.

Member Don D did my floor shift tilt for my 1970 Blazer and it is a work of art, and functions perfectly.

The aftermarket columns are typically cheaply constructed, and will cost you more in the long run.

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

@70shortfleet is another member who does excellent work restoring original GM columns.

Thread

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

Back in the early 2000s, I bought a 55 Chevy car with an Ididit floor-shift column that had originally been installed in another car of some kind. I wanted to get it shortened, so I called Ididit. They charged me $50 to shorten it, and then they replaced virtually every internal part for no-charge. It came back looking brand new! They even paid for return shipping. Probably the best customer service I've ever experienced.

Later I installed a column shift version in a 66 Chevy pickup, and it worked perfectly. My only complaint was the stick-on gear indicator. Gotta be a better way, and maybe they've come up with something since then.

On another note, a few years ago I shortened my 69's non-tilt, auto trans column by a little over 1". Maybe it was just me, but it was a real PITA, and I couldn't go another inch. Wish I could remember why. The upside was that even 1" helped, and I replaced or refurbished several internal parts and got rid of at least 50% of the slop. It may be something to re-tackle in the future. Finished product below.

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

Go GM original if you can...I had a horrible experience with Ididit in my 49 Chevy pickup, finally had enough tears in my beer, pulled it out and junked it. Swapped it out for a GM, the GMs are so good I run a shortened one in my 40 Ford Coup.
They are pretty convenient with the back-up lamps and NSS all right there on the column.

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

And buy off the board if you can. I just got one from 70shortfleet and it is beautiful. If you have a factory tilt, it would be worthwhile asking if someone would rebuild it for you.

If dead set on buying aftermarket, I'd try Flaming River. Avoid anything made in China, a poorly made steering column can kill you.

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

had never heard of flaming river. are they american made? price wise,they appear less expensive than the Brothers(Holley) brand
Thanks

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

There's an comprehensive article somewhere on the web about Chinese columns and how they can literally kill you. It was written by an organization in New Zealand that inspects and approves aftermarket parts. Their approved columns were Ididit, Flaming River, and a couple other USA manufacturers.

Found it: https://www.lvvta.org.nz/documents/i...ng_Columns.pdf

As I recall, several well-known US companies were importing and selling the Chinese columns, along with other defective steering parts. Scary.

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

I've generally heard only good things about Flaming River. Ididit, good and bad.

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

Thanks guys, lots of great comments and recommendations. I was hoping to put out another $1k for a column so I may get lucky. It also appears my column may actually be a tilt column from an RV. Im not sure but that said I replaced the turn signal cam and got the gear shift indicator to align but still having problems with the left turn signal cancelling. TBD...

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

It's been my experience that when once side won't cancel it's because that spring isn't a factory spring. Aftermarket springs seen to be slightly undersized and won't hit the cancel cam correctly.

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

Just got mine done by 70shortfleet. Best money ive spent. Hard to tell its not new as everthing is perfectly rebuilt.

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

Mine showed up Tuesday this week. They are beautiful. A person would be hard pressed to find one better than the ones Les kicks out.

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

I need to get with this guy...

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

Member DonD did me a tilt and it was a excellent job

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

That's awesome. I should have let him do mine.

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

They are made in Ohio and are junk. Plastic bushings that start to rattle in a year or less. You would be better off buying some Chinese version and immediately tearing it apart to fix the issues than spending $1000 on a FL and having to do the same 6 months later.

As stated, unless there is some reason you cannot use a factory version, go that route every time.

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

I need to do the same! I have some crappy aftermarket in mine now (came in the truck already)

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

Here's mine from 70shortfleet. It's a tilt automatic that has been shortened 2 inches.

We can argue the merits of Ididit and Flaming River all day, but you can't go wrong buying an (almost) original GM part off of a board member.

I am years away from installing it, probably, but I wanted to buy one while I had the chance.

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

actually, I just sent him a check yesterday for the same thing he built you.

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

That looks amazing. Yes I need one for sure. Why did you have yours shortened? I am still learning the tricks on these trucks

Re: Replacement steering columns
 

I opted for a shortened column so the steering wheel itself is closer to the dash. It's just a nice mod and I think it will be more comfortable.

I am probably keeping my original wheel - unless the 15" repops plummet in price for no reason - but honestly the tilt alone will be a game changer.