15" wheel vs Tilt - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

dboboltz · 08-21-2023, 04:20 PM

All,

70 GMC with power steering. I am a big guy - stock wheel is a problem at 17". Contemplating switching to a 15" wheel. Have also been exploring replacing current steering column with a tilt version.

Those of you who have done either switch - what do you think is best option? Wheel is $300 +/- (15 minute job). Tilt is $600 +/-(several hours).

Any guidance is appreciated.

Thanks

**Ol Blue K20** · 08-21-2023, 04:37 PM

I've did both, plus I moved the column 1 3/4" towards the dash. I'm not big but made it more roomy.

**dmjlambert** · 08-21-2023, 04:38 PM

The best option in my opinion is neither of the things you proposed. It is a non-tilt stock steering column that has been rebuilt and shortened. Mine is shortened by 2.5 inches. Much better.

sloGMC · 08-21-2023, 06:49 PM

isn't there a thread about somebody putting in a King Ranch seat, resulting in a lower bench with more leg room as well? seems like that would help more if you're a big guy.

**Rust_never_sleeps** · 08-21-2023, 07:47 PM

70 Chevy with a 15" wheel. https://www.lmctruck.com/1967-72-che...-15-inch-black
I haven't done any long trips since the swap, but it sure feels a lot better. I'm 6'6" and 325# on a good day
I can even set the brake before I open the door now

**1970cstblazer** · 08-22-2023, 07:38 AM

I would do both the 15" wheel and tilt steering column..

Rich72C10 · 08-22-2023, 07:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1970cstblazer

I would do both the 15" wheel and tilt steering column..

This is what I did, long ago there was a forum member that made shorten tilt columns. He was banned for some kerfuffle and that had me worried but my column has been fine. Well that isn't totally true, the reproduction turn signal part he used was a bit of a mess but I fixed that easily enough.

I don't know if anyone else is offering them... perhaps someone else knows for sure.

Edit: I think this photo I took of my cab yesterday you can see how the wheel sits?

**TxGary** · 08-22-2023, 09:35 AM

Do both. Member Don D builds tilt columns standard length or 2" shorter. He built mine and does a awesome job.

**69cam** · 08-22-2023, 11:32 AM

Nice truck! I also suggest Don D. He does great work and is a pleasure to deal with.

Rich72C10 · 08-22-2023, 11:42 AM

I see you are kind of new and to help with the "Don D" thing, that's his username but his post about these columns are listed below (in the parts section of the forum). You can use the forum search to find all posts by "Don D", for example. Just in case you are new to forums, in general.

MO GM Automatic Tilt Steering Column 67-72 Trucks

Then there is one for shorten columns:
MO GM Tilt Steering Column For Automatic Transmission Shortened 2”

72SB · 08-22-2023, 03:08 PM

OP

I did a 14" steering wheel. With PS is feels great and the room is good. I am 6'2"

4x4 k1500 · 08-22-2023, 05:27 PM

my 72 K15 came with a factory tilt and the PO had put a late 70's Chevy 15 inch wheel in the truck. I'm a big guy and I get along just fine with this setup. I think the steering wheel came out of a Camero

Casper42 · 08-22-2023, 05:37 PM

I also did both the drop-down to 15" wheel and the tilt. though I'm average height/weight, this is a nice combo, though I originally thought about a shortened column however this isn't a daily driver. I'm happy.

72c20customcamper · 08-22-2023, 06:08 PM

I have one of Dons shortened tilt columns with a 15 inch comfort grip wheel . One of the best mods I’ve done to my 72

**MikeB** · 08-22-2023, 08:02 PM

I installed a late 80s/early 90s 15" wheel many years ago. It's a noticeable improvement, assuming you have power steering.

And then a couple years ago I moved the steering column forward 1". It was a real PITA, but there may be better ways to do it that don't affect the column shift linkage. But even that 1" made a difference. Can't do a column mounted tach though, unless it's a small diameter one.

mr.mud1 · 08-23-2023, 08:20 AM

my 2 cents won't add much but i have always found the wheels in these trucks too close and too big. i 'm not that tall,5' 8 and 200 plus pounds.even in all my years truckin,i always drove with the seat all the way down and back.just what i found comfortable.in my 72 truck,i installed an old Chevy Motor home column i found,moved it an inch or so closer to the dash and used the small 15 inch wheel that was on the column.it isn't pretty but it'll do til i'm at Charlotte or somewhere to find a nicer wheel.i like it just fine and it did help with comfort.

howzzzit · 08-24-2023, 01:36 AM

By using a dished wheel aren't you negating the shorter column?

**Richard** · 08-24-2023, 02:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by howzzzit

By using a dished wheel aren't you negating the shorter column?

If referring to mr.mud1"s post. Not sure what you are getting at? His wheel is flatter than the stock one.

72c20customcamper · 08-24-2023, 10:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by howzzzit

By using a dished wheel aren't you negating the shorter column?

Not in my case . The problem is the diameter of the wheel not the dish .

dmarty · 08-24-2023, 10:16 AM

Back in the day, I put a 15" wheel from a mid 70's Camaro on my 72 and it made a big difference. Really liked it. Fortunately I kept my original wheel and just reinstalled it to make it all original. It looks great but it's big as a bus and is a real pain and I'm only 150lb and 5'10". I like the idea of a shortened column as it would be hard to tell from original but offer more room.

CC69Rat · 08-24-2023, 09:09 AM

15" wheel, Ididit tilt, buckets with 1.5-2" lowered seat brackets. I am 6'4" and it made a difference for sure.

Like others have said, I would suggest doing both. The shortened colum sounds like a cool idea too.

08-21-2023, 04:20 PM	#1
dboboltz Registered User Join Date: Sep 2018 Location: Scroggins, TX Posts: 25	15" wheel vs Tilt All, 70 GMC with power steering. I am a big guy - stock wheel is a problem at 17". Contemplating switching to a 15" wheel. Have also been exploring replacing current steering column with a tilt version. Those of you who have done either switch - what do you think is best option? Wheel is $300 +/- (15 minute job). Tilt is $600 +/-(several hours). Any guidance is appreciated. Thanks Attached Images

08-21-2023, 04:37 PM	#2
Ol Blue K20 Proprietor of Dale's Corner Join Date: Nov 2012 Location: Vacaville , CA Posts: 16,245	Re: 15" wheel vs Tilt I've did both, plus I moved the column 1 3/4" towards the dash. I'm not big but made it more roomy. __________________ "Some Days Chickens And Some Days Feathers" Dale XNGH ECV Sam Brannan 1004 R.I.P. 67ChevyRedneck R.I.P. Grumpy Old Man R.I.P. FleetsidePaul

08-21-2023, 04:38 PM	#3
dmjlambert Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2016 Location: Cypress, TX Posts: 3,859	Re: 15" wheel vs Tilt The best option in my opinion is neither of the things you proposed. It is a non-tilt stock steering column that has been rebuilt and shortened. Mine is shortened by 2.5 inches. Much better.

08-21-2023, 06:49 PM	#4
sloGMC Registered User Join Date: Jun 2018 Location: Central Coast, CA Posts: 126	Re: 15" wheel vs Tilt isn't there a thread about somebody putting in a King Ranch seat, resulting in a lower bench with more leg room as well? seems like that would help more if you're a big guy. __________________ 1971 Pontiac Firebird 1971 GMC C2500

08-21-2023, 07:47 PM	#5
Rust_never_sleeps Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2022 Location: San Ramon,CA Posts: 591	Re: 15" wheel vs Tilt 70 Chevy with a 15" wheel. https://www.lmctruck.com/1967-72-che...-15-inch-black I haven't done any long trips since the swap, but it sure feels a lot better. I'm 6'6" and 325# on a good day I can even set the brake before I open the door now Last edited by Rust_never_sleeps; 08-22-2023 at 03:55 PM.

08-22-2023, 07:38 AM	#6
1970cstblazer All stock and staying that way Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Elkland, PA Posts: 1,825	Re: 15" wheel vs Tilt I would do both the 15" wheel and tilt steering column.. __________________ 1970 K/5 Blazer CST 4WD, Medium Bronze, 93k ACT. miles, 350, 4 speed, rear positraction, 16.5" x 8.25" HD wheel option, tilt, tach, vacuum, AM/FM, manual throttle...Dad ordered and purchased new 4/70. Currently frame off restoration finally getting close to completion.. 1972 Cheyenne Super 20 2WD, DK Blue/White, 90K ACT. miles, 402, TH400, 4.10 open, tilt, tach, vacuum, A/C, AM/FM, manual throttle.. A mostly original paint never rusted Texas survivor... 2017 Sierra 1500 SLT 4WD, Black, 45k miles, 5.3, 6L80E, 3.42 LS, 20" polished wheels, everything but moonroof and 6.2... 2019 Canyon SLT 4WD, White, 62k miles, 3.6, 8L45, 3.23 LS, 18" wheels

08-22-2023, 09:35 AM	#8
TxGary Registered User Join Date: Jul 2001 Location: Bowie, Texas 76230 Posts: 1,059	Re: 15" wheel vs Tilt Do both. Member Don D builds tilt columns standard length or 2" shorter. He built mine and does a awesome job. __________________ 71 C-10 SWB 1969 C-30 Custom Camper Motorhome Restoration in progress. 2020 Chevy 2500 Crew 4x4 LTZ Diesel 2024 Chevy Tahoe Z71 4X4 2015 Diamond C 22' HD car hauler Bowie, Texas 76230

08-22-2023, 11:32 AM	#9
69cam Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2017 Location: Olney Il. Posts: 231	Re: 15" wheel vs Tilt Nice truck! I also suggest Don D. He does great work and is a pleasure to deal with.

08-22-2023, 11:42 AM	#10
Rich72C10 Mr. Cheyenne Join Date: Jun 2020 Location: Kyle, Texas Posts: 1,687	Re: 15" wheel vs Tilt I see you are kind of new and to help with the "Don D" thing, that's his username but his post about these columns are listed below (in the parts section of the forum). You can use the forum search to find all posts by "Don D", for example. Just in case you are new to forums, in general. MO GM Automatic Tilt Steering Column 67-72 Trucks Then there is one for shorten columns: MO GM Tilt Steering Column For Automatic Transmission Shortened 2” __________________ Richard *'72 Chevy C10 Cheyenne Super WHT/MED BRONZE/WHT SBC 350 \| TH350 \| LWB \| AC \| Buddy Seats Upgrades:** Tilt \| Front Sway Bar \| Radio \| Sliding Window \| Bed Spare w/Lock Bed Rails \| Full LEDs \| Courtesy Lights \| Tachometer \| Glovebox Lock & Light \| Head Light Relays \| Upgraded Fully Super Trim Last edited by Rich72C10; 08-22-2023 at 11:53 AM.*

08-22-2023, 03:08 PM	#11
72SB Registered User Join Date: Apr 2022 Location: Moorpark, CA Posts: 774	Re: 15" wheel vs Tilt OP I did a 14" steering wheel. With PS is feels great and the room is good. I am 6'2" Attached Images

08-22-2023, 05:27 PM	#12
4x4 k1500 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2022 Location: Clifton,KS Posts: 18	Re: 15" wheel vs Tilt my 72 K15 came with a factory tilt and the PO had put a late 70's Chevy 15 inch wheel in the truck. I'm a big guy and I get along just fine with this setup. I think the steering wheel came out of a Camero

08-22-2023, 05:37 PM	#13
Casper42 Registered User Join Date: Nov 2022 Location: Seattle, WA Posts: 331	Re: 15" wheel vs Tilt I also did both the drop-down to 15" wheel and the tilt. though I'm average height/weight, this is a nice combo, though I originally thought about a shortened column however this isn't a daily driver. I'm happy. __________________ '72 C10 Cheyenne SWB North Carolina truck for 50 years, 72k original miles, Medium/Hawaiian Blue, 3 owners - one for 40 years, garaged kept, original: sheetmetal, undercarriage, moldings, glass * * * New - engine rebuild at 65k in 2015, one repaint in 2010, new front bumper, houndstooth seat, carpet, 8 inch rally wheels on 275-60R-15, LED lighting. - Semper Paratus!

08-22-2023, 06:08 PM	#14
72c20customcamper Registered User Join Date: Jul 2018 Location: Catskill Mountains,NY Posts: 8,716	Re: 15" wheel vs Tilt I have one of Dons shortened tilt columns with a 15 inch comfort grip wheel . One of the best mods I’ve done to my 72 Attached Images __________________ Mark 72 c20 custom camper Husky edition, 66 SS396 Chevelle 1964 Hawk, 63 Avanti,62 lark 1969 AMX , 1968 c20 stepside ,85 K20 1977 Suburban sold 68 anniversary. Last edited by 72c20customcamper; 08-22-2023 at 06:14 PM.

08-22-2023, 08:02 PM	#15
MikeB Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2000 Location: North Texas Posts: 3,597	Re: 15" wheel vs Tilt I installed a late 80s/early 90s 15" wheel many years ago. It's a noticeable improvement, assuming you have power steering. And then a couple years ago I moved the steering column forward 1". It was a real PITA, but there may be better ways to do it that don't affect the column shift linkage. But even that 1" made a difference. Can't do a column mounted tach though, unless it's a small diameter one. Attached Images __________________ Mike 1969 C10 LWB -- owned for 35 years. 350/TH350, 3.08 posi, 1st Gen Vintage Air, recent AAW wiring harness, 5-lug conversion, 1985 spindles and brakes. 1982 C10 SWB -- sold 1981 C10 Silverado LWB -- sold, but wish I still had it! 1969 C10 (not the current one) that I bought in the early 1980s. Paid $1200; sold for $1500 a few years later. Just a hint at the appreciation that was coming. Retired as a factory automation products salesman. Worked part-time over the years for an engine builder and a classic car repair shop. Member here for 24 years! This is the very first car/truck Internet forum I joined. I still used a dial-up modem back then! Last edited by MikeB; 08-24-2023 at 01:06 PM.

08-23-2023, 08:20 AM	#16
mr.mud1 Registered User Join Date: Dec 2020 Location: Joggins Nova Scotia Posts: 1,597	Re: 15" wheel vs Tilt my 2 cents won't add much but i have always found the wheels in these trucks too close and too big. i 'm not that tall,5' 8 and 200 plus pounds.even in all my years truckin,i always drove with the seat all the way down and back.just what i found comfortable.in my 72 truck,i installed an old Chevy Motor home column i found,moved it an inch or so closer to the dash and used the small 15 inch wheel that was on the column.it isn't pretty but it'll do til i'm at Charlotte or somewhere to find a nicer wheel.i like it just fine and it did help with comfort. Attached Images



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08-24-2023, 01:36 AM	#17
howzzzit Registered User Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Kalifornia Posts: 354	Re: 15" wheel vs Tilt By using a dished wheel aren't you negating the shorter column?

08-24-2023, 10:16 AM	#20
dmarty Registered User Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Verona, WI Posts: 97	Re: 15" wheel vs Tilt Back in the day, I put a 15" wheel from a mid 70's Camaro on my 72 and it made a big difference. Really liked it. Fortunately I kept my original wheel and just reinstalled it to make it all original. It looks great but it's big as a bus and is a real pain and I'm only 150lb and 5'10". I like the idea of a shortened column as it would be hard to tell from original but offer more room. __________________ 72 GMC Sierra Grande SWB 402 BB A/C (Owned it since 1973) 99 Silverado 1500 LT with 315K miles (RIP) 2012 GMC Sierra SLT

08-24-2023, 09:09 AM	#21
CC69Rat Registered User Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Chattanooga TN Posts: 6,212	Re: 15" wheel vs Tilt 15" wheel, Ididit tilt, buckets with 1.5-2" lowered seat brackets. I am 6'4" and it made a difference for sure. Like others have said, I would suggest doing both. The shortened colum sounds like a cool idea too. Attached Images __________________ Chad 1967 C10 SWB - Project Savannah - 6.0/4L80 Currently underway 1968 C10 SWB - TOTY 2018, 50th Anniversary Tribute Project * Sold * Pride and Joy 1986 Silverado Short Fleet - Scarlet Sold 1985 Silverado Short Fleet Sold 2022 Jeep Gladiator Mojave 2001 Jeep Cherokee XJ 4x4 - Lifted, Built 1992 Jeep Cherokee XJ 4x4 - Lifted 2013 Honda Accord EX-L v6 Coupe 6spd (wife's ride)

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