30" or 33" aftermarket tilt/shift steering column?

[jds319]

I'd like to take advantage of CPP's 10% off Father's Day Sale and buy a steering column. My truck's not put together enough to do a mock up, and I'm trying to determine whether or not I want to order a 30" or a 33". I've seen a lot of people have recommended both of CPP, but I hope y'all can help me pick which one will work better for me. My main concern is getting the linkage to fit. Details:

1956 Chevy w/ 1979 Trans Am clip. 454 cid big block with headers. Recently installed CPP's brake booster and pedal. Gas tank removed from cab and installed under bed, giving more seat room eventually. No particular preference on steering wheel, but I may try to use the one from my '92 Chevy pickup.





Thoughts? Any help GREATLY appreciated

[jds319]

Another pic or two to show clearances.





Thoughts???? Thanks so much for your help.

[dwcsr]

go with a 30. 33 may put you to far into the header.

[jds319]

Thanks, dwcsr!

[jds319]

Well, for the project's first time perhaps, I'm going to do it in the right order and wait on ordering my column. I mocked it up this afternoon with a fishing rod measured off with a paper-plate steering wheel and "bucket" seat, and couldn't tell whether I'd need the shorter 30" column for it's arm room, or the longer 33" column for leg clearance. I need to find a seat!!!

[dwcsr]

I used a wooden dowel 3 ft long with the seat I wanted. Get a few pieces of the dowel and you can make up your shaft all the way to the box. use duct tape and the Ujoint. Saves money in the long run. Paper plate stapled to the dowel as a steering wheel. You can use the existing column hanger for the top mount and duct tape for the bottom mount. Once you get it setup cut it apart and measure the parts. Here is one way mine ended up before I changed to a rack.