Original 63-66 Steering Column SHAFT Question

[David L.]

In the early 1980's I rebuilt the steering column with new bearings as well as a GM shaft, # 5690810, on my 1966. Attached are 3 photos of the 37 1/32" long original shaft. The 0.75" diameter shaft is slightly scored at a point 15" down from the top end (scored diameter measures 0.73", see photo #2) as well as at a point 6 1/2" from the bottom end (scored diameter measures 0.69", see photo #3).
Is this shaft salvageable or is it 4.5 lbs. of steel for the recycling bin?
Dave

[Mike M.]

Re: Original 63-66 Steering Column SHAFT Question

i'd replace the mast shaft. Corvette central has them, i recall for less than 100 bucks. mike

[David L.]

Re: Original 63-66 Steering Column SHAFT Question

i'd replace the mast shaft. Corvette central has them, i recall for less than 100 bucks. mike

Mike,
As mentioned previously I did replace the shaft with a new one back in the early 1080's, GM 5690810, that I bought at my local Chevrolet dealer (list price $21.10, my cost was $15.83). My question was whether or not the shaft salvageable. I, like many others, prefer original GM parts, not reproductions.
Dave

[Mike M.]

Re: Original 63-66 Steering Column SHAFT Question

dave: i personally know the machinist who manufactured the repo shafts. i lent him a NOS shaft that he spec'd for the manufacturing. he made 100 shafts and sold them to various vet dealers. i don't know who CC gets their shafts from. i can see that your shaft isn't scored too deeply but if it were me, i'd replace it. regards, mike

[David L.]

Re: Original 63-66 Steering Column SHAFT Question

dave: i personally know the machinist who manufactured the repo shafts. i lent him a NOS shaft that he spec'd for the manufacturing. he made 100 shafts and sold them to various vet dealers. i don't know who CC gets their shafts from. i can see that your shaft isn't scored too deeply but if it were me, i'd replace it. regards, mike

Mike:
Back in the 1980's I did replace my steering column shaft with one from GM. I avoid reproduction parts. I was just wondering if this original shaft could be repaired or is it destined for the salvage yard.
Dave

[Michael M.]

Re: Original 63-66 Steering Column SHAFT Question

I do not want to say everything can be repaired, but in your case I do not see why the shaft can not be repaired. A welder and machinist could make that shaft like new. What caused the scoring lines in your shaft?

[David L.]

Re: Original 63-66 Steering Column SHAFT Question

I do not want to say everything can be repaired, but in your case I do not see why the shaft can not be repaired. A welder and machinist could make that shaft like new. What caused the scoring lines in your shaft?

I believe that worn out bearings caused the scoring.

[Ronald L.]

Re: Original 63-66 Steering Column SHAFT Question

A really good welder could fill that and machine back on a lathe, may cost more than the repro

[David L.]

Re: Original 63-66 Steering Column SHAFT Question

A really good welder could fill that and machine back on a lathe, may cost more than the repro

Ron,
That is what I thought. Some guys prefer original GM parts instead of reproduction parts. I put the shaft on eBay for cheap $.
Dave