steering column

[climberman]

I am trying to decide whether to have an automatic steering column or put a shifter on the floor. I have a 283 and a power glide transmission. I would rather have the shifter in the steering column so there is more room on the floor of the truck. But will the steering column shift a power glide transmission because I think that most of the automatics for trucks were 350's. Anyway I don't have the steering column ether that might be a hard one to find.

[1963c-10]

The powerglide was factory in our trucks....just source a 60-66 truck with an auto column and you'll be fine. The 63-66 columns are easier to work on in my opinion than the earlier columns with the rods for the cancel systems.

[1963c-10]

Also....I think the TH400 was not an option until 65 or 66 in our trucks. 3 speed columns rarely pop up for our trucks.

I converted my fleetside to a factory auto using a powerglide. Was a very easy swap.

[vin63]

I went with a column shifter for the very same reason…in my case, one of my big dogs rides with me and it's not as easy to bump the shifter on the column. As far as shifting, it will be easier to accommodate the two-speed since it is a shorter travel - just get the appropriate linkage, bell crank/selector, etc. My column shifter operates a 4L80E.

[climberman]

Thanks for the help everyone. It probable won't be easy finding a steering column

[vin63]

I run an Ididit retro fit column, but there are OE columns from other years that people use frequently.

[The Rocknrod]

If you go with a column shift you can get the powerglide shift indicator here:
http://www.classicparts.com/Dash-Parts/products/186/6/0

[Thiessen1960]

I do have a column from a 1966 auto which I do not need, not sure what they are worth though.

[climberman]

If the price is right and it is in good shape or working order I will take it. I don't know how much they are worth I could call around.

[Thiessen1960]

I genuinely dont know what to ask for it, and it is still good, I am just going with a standard so I have no use for it. My dad picked it up years ago and kept it in the basement.

[climberman]

I will give you $100 and shipping how does that sound.

[Thiessen1960]

I will consider it and get back to you.

[climberman]

Hi Thiessen

I thought I would send the reply I received from another forum not trying to pressure you but it is a good indicator for the cost of a steering wheel.

(...You shouldn't have any problems making an automatic column work with your powerglide. I don't know if they make a shift indicator for a powerglide, though. Columns aren't that hard to find, I've found two, both were under $100.00. If you can't locate one where you are, let me know and I'll see what I can do.
Bill...)

Thanks

[1963c-10]

Shift indicators are still available for the powerglide columns

[climberman]

Yes... someone gave me a link to a supplier in another forum what I don't understand is isn't there an indicator on the column

[1963c-10]

Yes. I can show pics of a factory column....

[1963c-10]

Heres the one I installed in my 63....from a donar 63.

[climberman]

That would be great

[climberman]

So you just buy an indicator if the one on there is beat up.

[1963c-10]

Yes. All the parts for these columns are available. They use the same switch as the manuals, same cancel cams...etc. The indicator is held on by two screws and the chrome cover will come off. It holds the plastic indicator lens.