Steering Column distance from dash opening

[reed62]

Hey all,
I had a question about the distance between the opening for the steering column in the dash and the cone shaped housing near the top of the column. I know this could be a way to add more space between the seat and passenger to the steering wheel. I've seen some pictures that show about an inch clearance between the bottom of the "cone" and the opening in the dash. I know that if you have a column shift, that part will rotate during gear selection. I have a floor shift so it will not be a factor.

Thoughts?

Randy