Posted by Ken on Tuesday, October 28, 2003 at 8:39PM :
In Reply to: wwii dodge / powerwagon steering column help posted by mannyc on Monday, October 27, 2003 at 9:05PM :
Manny,
I repaired a steering shaft with the threads destroyed this past spring on the 58 FFPW I am currently restoring.
First I cut off the threaded portion as the threads were completely gone. (came off with the nut) Then I ran a drill down the hollow shaft to clean up the inside. I believe the size was 9/16".
Get a 9/16" bolt about 4" long and cut off the head. Drill this thru the center for the horn wire. This takes some patience to do. I take a piece of 2x4 and drill a 9/16" hole thru it. Then I saw it into 2 pieces with the saw cut thru the center of the hole. Then I clamp the 2x4 into my drill press vise with the 9/16" bolt stuck in the hole. This holds it straight in line for drilling. I started with a 1/8" drill and drilled from both ends. Then I enlarged it big enough for a 16 ga wire to pass thru and turn easily. I believe I went to 1/4" or 5/16".
Insert this into the hollow tube and use a felt marker to mark where the key goes. Remove the 9/16" bolt and use a die grinder with a thin wheel to make a small slot for the bottom of the key.
On the steering tube below the tapered portion drill a 3/8" hole completely thru both sides of the tube. Insert the 9/16" bolt and line up the slot with the keyway. When you are sure the steering wheel and key fit Ok plug weld the bolt fast to the steering tube thru the 2 3/8" holes. Turn up the heat on your welder and make sure your plug welds penetrate well into the bolt.
Add a 9/16" locknut and you are back in business.
Hope this helps.
Ken
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