steering column help

[1952ssr]

I have decided to go with a steering colulmn that has the shifter on it. I need input for my various options and what I wanting to accomplish. I seen differerant applications on here but, can't remember who or where they were.
1. I would like to find a column and be able to use the original steering wheel
2. what linkage or way I need to work with a 4L60E
3. I want one long enough that I'm not stuck right up next to the dash
Thanks guys for the help.

[54 jimmy]

i used a 69 van column in mine. bolts in the factory spot with the factory clamp. i made my own linkage. if intrested i can supply you with the info and parts to make a shifter linkage. pm me if intrested. give my build a look.

[Thadious]

I used a 74 Van Column with the indicator on the top and a Lokar ACA-1800 shift linkage setup... pretty slick and easy to do. Using it on a TH700r4 so now just making up a shift plate for the column so everything lines up properly.

Cheers,
Ted.

[OrrieG]

I used an 82 eldorado column and B&M racing shifter cable set up, its in my build thread. I will need to add an indicator to the column as original was in the dash. aftermarket guys make ones that mount on the column and shift cover.

[BlueJeep]

S10 column and the same Lokar linkage as Thadious. I'm buying the aftermarket stick-on gear indicator thing.

[1952ssr]

Thanks to all for the input. I looked at the Lokar kit, I admit it is simple. The only part I'm not kheen on is the (2) 1/8 allen head bolts on the connecting rod, I personally think that could be better engineered.

[BlueJeep]

Actually, one of the last steps is to take it back apart and make a couple notches in the rod with a grinder so the set screws "lock" it into place. It's very solid when done. If you were really worried you could drill a hole through the whole thing and put a cotter pin in it too.

[rhodog77]

found the pix of this kit on lokar. looks like its well engineered

[MrTucker]

I like the look/style of the old Hydra-Matic column shifters. You have your normal column, with the shifter a separate "bolt on" that attaches to the column...let me look for a pic...

EDIT: here's what my truck has...gives it that cool mechanical look...I can take better pics, if you like

[Thadious]

Nothing says you can't find a spline connector for the old style shifts (thought of it myself after the fact... just for the "cool" factor), lengthen it a bit (I believe) put and arm on the end, then attach the Lokar shifter setup to it... should work like a charm actually...

Cheers!
Ted.

[hotrodsbyray]

just for more info for you guys. A Chevy Astro column is similar to the s-10 but the shift rod is on the opposite side - helps with some installs.

[yossarian19]

It looks like the Lokar kit is awfully similar to all-thread + spherical rod ends / "Heim" joints w/ lock nuts.
It also looks like most / any GM column w/ shifter can be used.
Are there any specific requirements or criterion to use when picking one out?
Spline count / diameter on the output shaft?
length?
Mounting?
Newbie questions here, I know...

[mr48chev]

Well it was a 25 month old dead thread before you answered it but I'd say go with a Chevy van column that doesn't have the key switch on it (80 something and earlier)
Or with some modification a 70/72 Truck column would be a clean column to use.
That would require some modifications to the shaft or changing shafts in the column though.

I've had the later model Tilt columns in the 48 in the past and while convenient and somewhat comfortable they always look bulky, out of place and a bit of an afterthought in an early vehicle.

[Fielddad]

I used a 76 Bonnieville ,but I wanted to start,shift,tilt and turns on the colum. It is 35" which fits the interior I will be putting together.