63 Steering Column Alignment

[Kenneth B.]

Hello, Folks,

I recently reinstalled the steering column in my 63 convertible.

Today I noticed that the column is not perpendicular to the instrument panel (or the firewall, on the engine side); it is angled slightly towards the left inner fenderwell.

Everything else with the column seems to be OK; it lines up perfectly with the steering box at the rag joint.

Is this a problem?

Thanks in advance.

[Stuart F.]

Re: 63 Steering Column Alignment

Mine seems to be cock eyed too, but I recall reading this was planned that way for driver comfort/positioning. I don't recall where I read it, try Noland Adam's book, or even the Judging Guide. Or you can wait for a reply from one of the more knowledgable fellows.

Stu Fox

[Joel T.]

Re: 63 Steering Column Alignment

Hi,

The column on my 1963 is basically the same way, slightly off perpendicular. Not a problem.

Joel

[Kenneth B.]

Re: 63 Steering Column Alignment

Hi,

The column on my 1963 is basically the same way, slightly off perpendicular. Not a problem.

Joel

Thanks to all for the prompt replies.

That's great news - I was almost afraid to ask for fear of discovering yet another Corvette gremlin.

Now I can go find something else on the car to stress about!

[Stuart F.]

Re: 63 Steering Column Alignment

Ken;

I found reference to the offset steering column in a couple publications describing the original design of the C-2. Basically, a larger hump/center consul was used and the seats were spread to give it more shoulder and hip room (i.e. seats are further apart than on C-1's). I guess the frame is almost a perimeter frame in the passenger compartment, but is narrower in the front and rear for the suspension. To make a long story short; to put you the driver in line with the steering wheel, it was necessary to angle the column a little to the left from where the steering box sits, and is why they used a "rag" joint coupling which acts as a universal joint.

Stu