73 cj5 steering column!

I have a 73 cj5 with 360 v8, it has a straight shaft steering column now and I would like to change that to a tilt column. I changed the big bus style steering wheel to gain some room, but it is still not enough. Can someone please tell me what options I have as bolt in without buying the expensive column form the aftermarket. I would like to get one from an later jeep or some other vehicle I can pull from the junk yard. Thanks

 

I don't think there is a true "bolt in" tilt column for early CJs.

 

Correct, anything you install - other than an aftermarket column built to order - will require some adapting. There's no Jeep column that will bolt in.

Here are some old posts to read: https://www.google.com/search?q=site:earlycj5.net tilt steering column

 

What would get you the closest? I thought a GM or YJ column would be close.

 

I recall somebody here used a Jeep tilt column, and kept the original pedals and sled bracket somehow. But I think it might be worthwhile to save your pennies and buy a Flaming River or Ididit hot rod column. It would tilt and the column would be small enough in diameter to replace the existing wheel and tube without changing the dash, sled bracket and pedals. You can order one with a specific length, diameter, spline, and wheel. There's a lot of extra junk that goes along with the locking column, that you don't need for this.

Or else resign yourself to going 100% custom with whatever you can find in the wrecking yard.

 

I'm doing this right now. I am using a jeep tilt column out of a later CJ. I am using pedals out of an intermediate jeep. I had to cut the part that mounts from the firewall to the tub and am reworking the column mount part to fit the new column but keep the original pedals. I should have picts soon...

I am also using a post 76 dash.

 

The biggest issue is the diameter of the later Saginaw style columns. This changes the mounting points, having to cut the dash, and length can be an issue. Then you have to consider steering shaft upper joint mating and length, wiring, etc. it can and has been done, but not a bolt up operation.


Sent from my iPhone

 

FYI:
Here is Flaming River 30" no frills 1.75" diameter Tilt Column for my 1965 CJ with a Grant 14" wheel.........fits the early style dash small diameter dash bracket , in black looks close to an old column with the tilt and turn signals built in...........they also make a direct replacement for the later CJ's 71 and beyond.............nice stuff. Excuse the mess "Work in Progress"


New floor bracket for column But floor pedals are now gone for swings and Power Brakes


14" Grant Wheel