1954 Steering Shaft

[Steve G.]

I'm having some difficulty with getting the steering shaft and gear box out of the 54 I'm rebuilding. Has anyone been successful with getting this out? I've tried following the shop manual for the 53-62 but I don't believe it's correct for the 54. Seems like the instructions are meant for later C1 models that didn't have the lower half of the dash surrounding the lower half of the steering shaft. It almost seems like I have to remove the lower half of the dash in order to be able to lower the shaft in interior of the car so that I can raise the steering box high enough to get it out from the trunk. Any help would be appreciated.

[Chris S.]

Re: 1954 Steering Shaft

The shaft comes out thru the grill opening
Have to loosen the LH inner fender and push HARD
loud crunching noises
Tape up the box and column - prevent scratches.

Is the body on and engine in?
Best way is with the body off.....

[Steve G.]

Re: 1954 Steering Shaft

Yes...the body and engine are on the car. I'm not sure I see how to get it out of the grill. Would I have to remove the generator, fan blade and radiator? I didn't think about removing the body but, I agree with you, that may be the easiest way. Jeez...what brain child within Chevrolet would make it so you have to remove the body off the frame in order to service a piece of equipment?

[Chris S.]

Re: 1954 Steering Shaft

I am not sure that you can do it - in the car........
Radiator has to come out......
The column was in the car when the body drop was done on the assy line....