Auto steering column collar conversion.

[samert111]

My 68 C10 was converted to manual floor shift and was wondering if there is an aftermarket collar to replace the auto shifter collar on the column to eliminate the nub left over from the shift arm vs. replacing the entire steering column with an aftermarket unit?

[68 C10 Driver]

Originally Posted by samert111

My 68 C10 was converted to manual floor shift and was wondering if there is an aftermarket collar to replace the auto shifter collar on the column to eliminate the nub left over from the shift arm vs. replacing the entire steering column with an aftermarket unit?

Howdy- I went through this same process that was started by my father-in-law many moons ago. I simply went on eBay and found the collar that was made for the floor shift models. I could not find an aftermarket item.

There is one currently on eBay here: https://www.ebay.com/itm/16577823544...Bk9SR-Cc0ZKbYQ

Your only other alternative is to grind off the nub for the column shifter, and fill it in with something like 'All Metal' body filler or a two-part epoxy putty and shape it accordingly.

[samert111]

Originally Posted by 68 C10 Driver

Howdy- I went through this same process that was started by my father-in-law many moons ago. I simply went on eBay and found the collar that was made for the floor shift models. I could not find an aftermarket item.

There is one currently on eBay here: https://www.ebay.com/itm/16577823544...Bk9SR-Cc0ZKbYQ

Thanks. I'll see what I can find.

[68 C10 Driver]

Disassembling the steering column is relatively easy and simple. Just take pictures with your phone of areas you disassemble, BEFORE you disassemble. Gives you a great reference when you reassemble the column. Not a lot of parts.

And in the process you can paint it what ever color you want for that professional look.

[Southcity]

To add a potential option to think about. I recently installed a tilt column in my 66 K10 Burban (4 speed, stock steering wheel). It started life as a 70's GM Van automatic tilt. Shift indicator was ground off, column body worked, painted. Board member 70shortfleet did the work and it is outstanding, I highly recommend him. Adding a tilt to any of these trucks really improves the driving experience and comfort.

[samert111]

Originally Posted by Southcity

To add a potential option to think about. I recently installed a tilt column in my 66 K10 Burban (4 speed, stock steering wheel). It started life as a 70's GM Van automatic tilt. Shift indicator was ground off, column body worked, painted. Board member 70shortfleet did the work and it is outstanding, I highly recommend him. Adding a tilt to any of these trucks really improves the driving experience and comfort.

That was my original plan but thought I would see about just replacing the collar first.

I've already slid the current column down into the dash about 2" to give me more space between me and the steering wheel. So it's a much more comfortable driving experience.

[Southcity]

Originally Posted by samert111

That was my original plan but thought I would see about just replacing the collar first.

I've already slid the current column down into the dash about 2" to give me more space between me and the steering wheel. So it's a much more comfortable driving experience.

Sliding the column down really makes a big difference in those 67-72 cabs. You may want to reach out to 70shortfleet and ask him if he has any collars for your application. He's a great resource and can most likely help you out or recommend some options.

[samert111]

Originally Posted by 68 C10 Driver

There is one currently on eBay here: https://www.ebay.com/itm/16577823544...Bk9SR-Cc0ZKbYQ

I saw that one but it's for an automatic just like what I've got.

[68 C10 Driver]

Originally Posted by samert111

I saw that one but it's for an automatic just like what I've got.

No, they have both, scroll through the photos. When purchasing you need to specify which one you want.

[samert111]

Originally Posted by 68 C10 Driver

No, they have both, scroll through the photos. When purchasing you need to specify which one you want.

Thanks, I missed that.

I sent him a message to make sure the part fits the auto column OK.

[pjmoreland]

Here's a thread that shows the differences between automatic and floor shift columns.

https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...d.php?t=827926

[Grumpy old man]

I still have this one for sale on the board ,

https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...d.php?t=834522

[samert111]

Thanks all for your replies

I ended up finding the pcs I need to convert my current column from 70shortfleet here on the forum.

[BIG ORANGE]

I built a truck yrs ago that was a 3 speed on the column and I put a 4 speed and Hurst floor shifter in. I sawed that nub off filled it with JB weld and did some sanding and priming a coat of paint and was perfect.