Need Help: Steering Column to Rag Joint

[Keith M.]

I had to "fix" a body mount situation for my 1970. Essentially the body was sitting too low due to incorrect installation by previous work done. The body now has the correct aluminum mounts and is sitting at the correct height. The result has caused the steering column to come up "short" of the rag joint assembly. See pic.

First question, this is too far off, correct?

2nd question: Correct me if i am wrong, but i need to slide the steering column into the engine compartment to make up this length? If so, what's the trick in getting the column to move? I have the plate on the engine side of the firewall removed and the two bolts under the steering column loosened but it won't budge. Thanks.

[Alan S.]

Re: Need Help: Steering Column to Rag Joint

Hi Keith,
No, it's not too far off.
I believe you'll find the steering column itself doesn't have any forward or backward adjustment. It's position is located by the plate at the firewall. The cast iron mount the column bolts to actually has the adjustment to accommodate the position of the column.
The length go the shaft COULD be shorter because the shaft has collapsed slightly…. but I seriously DOUBT that has happened.
I think the amount of the splined steering shaft showing out of the coupler in your picture looks quite typical. On my 71 about 3/4" of the shaft is captured by the coupler.
Regards,
Alan

[Keith M.]

Re: Need Help: Steering Column to Rag Joint

Thanks Alan. Much appreciated...onward to the next issue to address.