VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND NEWER 1949-1954 Steering Column Upgrade

I am trying to avoid shooting myself in the foot again. This time it is about the steering column in my 50 Deluxe. I noticed the pitman arm and shaft coated with oil. I gather the seal is shot. I have been considering upgrading the steering column and steering gearbox to a newer model with ball bearings and an improved gear ratio. I have acquired a 54 assembly that I took apart, cleaned and replaced the seals. Now before I start doing the actual transplant, I thought it would be wise to send out smoke signals to see if the keepers of Chevy knowledge can help prevent me from doing anything stupid. I am intending to keep the 1950 steering wheel and horn assembly and am hoping it will fit on the 54 column without any modifications to either the column or the wheel. Has anyone been here before? Thanks.

I up-graded my 50 steering box many years ago to what you want but will try to remember. There was something different with a 54 box,(I think it was the mast shaft length) but I pressed a new 54 worm gear on my 50 shaft and used a new 54 sector shaft. I machined the 50 housing and cap for the Torrington needle bearings that was used on a 54. I had the better ratio of the 54 plus the needle bearings in a 50 housing. There is a lot less drag with bearings compared to bushings. Works good to this day.

Hey john,

Thanks for the tip. I will check the length carefully before I get started. If there is a difference, I will back at the local parts museum too see if I can get an extra 50 column. I would like to build it up before ripping into my car. More on this later. Bob

I have a 51 sedan that I'm planning on installed a 54 column into this summer. I believe that the 54 may be an inch or so shorter, but either way I don't fore see a problem. Keep us posted as to how it all works out. Donn

Donn,

I'll shoot a few pics and let you know what I learn. Bob