Steering column question.

[elimontfort]

I'm looking to convert my 68 to a tilt column out of a 85 van. I was wondering if anyone makes a sleeve that gets rid of the key in the column. I would like to keep the key in the dash. Could I possibly use a sleeve from a floor shift column on this?

[hugger6933]

The easiest way to go is get a little earlier column out of a van say 82 and back they didn't have the key in the column like the truck. Also motor homes up to at least the model year 85 have a column in them that look real close to the one that comes [or came in our trucks]. If you go to the top of the home page and then go to the FAQ section for the year model in question, 67-72 section it has several post about the use of van columns in the older trucks and many how to's there. Jim

[elimontfort]

Thanks for the reply. I am aware of when they started the key in the column. My question was if anyone makes a column sleeve that has it deleted or if a floor shift column sleeve would work. I realize that getting a column with the key not in it is the easiest. But sometimes the easiest way is not viable. I have a free van column that is in excellent condition and would like to use it.

[MARKDTN]

I am not aware of anybody offering that sleeve. I have a theft recovered column like that I got free. It has had the lock cylinder removed forceably which damaged the cylinder boss. I intend to remove the steering wheel lock plate and just cut the lock boss off and smooth up the outside, bondo, and paint it. That could also give you pulse wiper controls and a cruise switch.

[69chevytrucker]

i cut my key and shifter off had no problems doing it here are some pics for you

[69chevytrucker]

[69chevytrucker]

just so you know you need to modify the column a bit knock off all the welded nuts trim the bottom of the sleeve etc
nut gone in that pic

[69chevytrucker]

here it is done