C3 Steering Column Questions
Is it possible to convert my standard (1971) steering column to a tilt-telescoping column or do I need to buy a new column? If I do need to buy a new column what years are interchangable? Is there any way to determine (through serial numbers etc.) whether the car should or should not have a tilt-telescoping column? Lastly, where is a good source for buying a tilt-tele. column? A lot of quetsions I know - but any input will be appreciated.
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Re: C3 Steering Column Questions
John-----
It is absolutely not possible to convert a standard column to tilt-tele. Virtually all of the column parts are different.
To do a conversion, you have to replace the entire column. However, there's really nothing besides the column replacement that needs to be done.
For the most part, 69-75 tilt-tele columns are functionally interchangeable as a unit. However, there are some differences with respect to minor external features like turn signal and tilt lever stalks and ignition switch key. These can be changed but, obviously, it's best to get a column from the same year as the car to avoid this need.
Nothing in a car's serial number or other features will identify a car originally equipped with tilt-tele column. However, original documentation like tank sticker, build sheet, window sticker, etc. will, obviously, identify such a car.
For a used, rebuilt column you might try Corvette Steering (www.corvettesteering.com) or Columns Galore (www.columnsgalore.com). For just a used column, sources like Contemporary Corvette, Pacific Corvette, or Paragon Vintage are places to check.
For an NOS column, Piper's Corvette.
For any of the above, especially NOS, expect to pay BIG $$$$$.In Appreciation of John Hinckley -
Re: C3 Steering Column Questions
What you want is a column 1969-75 with everything except the steering wheel. Your original wheel is the same (standard non-adjustable or T&T.)
There is one additional option with respect for a T&T into a 1969-75 Vette. The 1976 T&T steering column is often refered to as being a real one year orphan. The actual bare column is exactly the same as the 69-75 versions. The differences are in the steering wheel, telescope lock, and horn cap. It might be possible to find a 1976 T&T column for your car at a lower price than the older ones.
If you cannot purchase a complete T&T column, here are the parts you will require. I think all of them are available through major Vette suppliers.
You would have to purchase the hub (3949110), extension (3949109), spacer (3952781), telescope locking lever (3949108), star screw (3949135), 2-lever screws (9420455), 3-upper horn contact screws (3949107), shims (3910765), 3-lower contact screws (9424809), lower horn contact with spring (3949105), and horn cap (3952780).
Two other things:
When you go to snap the vehicle wiring harness to the ignition switch (on top of the steering column) you will need to twist the harness connectors 180 degrees to fit the T&T switch.
Also some people have found that the turn signal switch "harmonica" connector from the new steering column will not snap into the vehicle harness. It may be necessary to swap connectors from your original column in order to make that connection. (The harmonica connectors look very much the same but they just won't snap together. I have never figured out why the incompatability.)
Good luck,
JimLast edited by Jim S.; January 6, 2010, 09:07 AM.Comment
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Re: C3 Steering Column Questions
John,
If you cannot locate a used T&T column for a reasonable price,there is another option; Corvette Central has a new manufactured T&T column in their latest catalog.
And Jim, on a further note, the '76 column really isn't that much an orphan. I was able to take one and by using the '77 parts for the horn, was still able to put the earlier parts to secure the Hub and Wheel for an earlier year ('73). Been working for the past ten years.
Good Luck on your search.
BobComment
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Re: C3 Steering Column Questions
I just looked at the latest CC catalog, both online and in the catalog itself. I believe the column you are referring to is only a TILT and NOT telescoping. It is actually a Flaming River column that is available in 3 varieties:
unfinished-$699
black-$799
polished$899
All of them require the use of an installation kit that is an extra $256 on top of that. It also states all of these items are ND (no discount). For that kind of stew I think you can find a real nice original. I am sure you get them to stand behind the new one. If you were to purchase an original you might want to make sure it worked fine, as parts can be very difficult to find if there was a problem.
LynnComment
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Re: C3 Steering Column Questions
Do you know if the Flaming River tilt steering column in the Corvette Central catalogue is energy absorbing and collapsible?
I realize that OEM columns are getting harder and harder to find. But the Vette OEM columns (both standard and T&T) were designed and manufactured by Saginaw Steering Gear specifically for the Corvette vehicle. They were developed and tested utilizing full vehicle test crashes to insure that they performed for maximum safety for the driver.
They were designed to collapse from the lower end as the frame and steering gear were deformed in a severe frontal impact. They were also designed to absorb energy as the driver hits the steering wheel and drives the upper end of the steering column toward the dash structure in that same type of crash.
I really hate to see the OEM column replaced with one that does not have the above design history.
Jim SheaComment
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Re: C3 Steering Column Questions
Jim,
I fully understand, I would prefer the original column myself. It does not say anything about any safety features in the catalog and I did not see any mention of that online either. Probably would find more information on them at Flaming River's website. My bet is from a safety standpoint they most likely do not compare with the Generals product.
LynnComment
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Re: C3 Steering Column Questions
Lynn,
Thanks for looking at that column further. I just glanced at it rather than looking at all the details. (sorry 'bout that, Jim)
Probably the best bet still, is to find a good used T&T and install the GM parts, as compared with all those add on costs to the aftermarket item.Comment
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Re: C3 Steering Column Questions
I don't know when they started but they do offer a laser cut column that is collapsable. Atleast for 67 and 68. Be aware that this column is not complete in that the firewall bracket and underdash bracket is not part of the column purchase.Comment
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Re: C3 Steering Column Questions
Scott,
I am just relating what a steering column development engineer told me. The performance of an energy absorbing, collapsible steering column can only be validated by crashing the car into a barrier. You can copy the design to the best of your ability but you really don't know the critical dimensions that make it perform correctly.
Robert,
I purchased a new 1976 Vette when I worked at Saginaw Steering Gear (back then we were part of General Motors). Of course it was ordered with a T&T column. I never liked the "Vega" original steering wheel.
As soon as the 1977s came out, I obtained a leather wrapped steering wheel and the appropriate 1977 extension, telescope lock, and horn parts. They all bolted right on my original 1976 T&T. The extension had a skirt that was not quite as long as the 1976 part. If you telescoped the steering wheel all the way toward the driver, there was a small 1/4 inch gap between the end of the skirt and the turn signal switch housing. (Unless you seat yourself like a Sprint Cup driver, you most likely will never extend the steering wheel all the way rearward anyway.)
JimComment
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