Slick 60's

What is the length of the steering shaft after it is shortened to add the later model power steering box to a 66 F-250 with manual steering?
Thank You!

Tom @ Flashbacks would know...

I went and measured my stash. These are for F-100. If the F-250 is different, someone speak up. But I think they are the same, assuming 2 wheel drive. I have no clue what happens up front to a 4x4.

2x 65 floor shift, manual steering, 35 5/8" measured with the tape hooked on the rag joint flange, right at one of the bolt holes.

1x 69?? floor shift, Powersteering w/Saginaw box I am pretty sure, 32 13/16 overall.

1x 75? Floor or automatic column shift, cannot remember which, but doesn't matter. 33 5/16 overall.

In the case of the latter years 75, the basic shaft geometry is the same as the 69, but there are additional threads and nipple on the shaft. the later shaft can be used with the earlier steering wheels by cutting 1/2" off.

I would NOT try and shorten a old shaft. Think about what happens if it fails.... The bottom flange is not welded on -- its a splined joint that appears to be hot swaged on.

Getting the correct length shaft is as simple as asking around. I am sure Tom has one. Hell, I have two laying around, but I'd rather you buy from Tom.

I remembered that fordification has a great how to on this topic, after I wrote it all for you.

http://www.fordification.com/tech/powersteering.htm

I was right about F250 and F100 being the same in this department.....

these are measurements

Bendix Box Shaft 34 15/16
Non-Power Steering 35 5/8
Ford power steering 32 7/8

Thanks Guys!

I would use a shaft Blackwaterforge shortened.... ever see the way he can work metal! i am sure it would be safe.

Bill W wrote:I would use a shaft Blackwaterforge shortened.... ever see the way he can work metal! i am sure it would be safe.

x2
i would not worry either

Thanks Guys!
Shortening the shaft doesn't seem like a big deal.