Steering box for 54 Ford


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By paul2748 - 18 Years Ago
I should rebuild the steering box in my 54 Ford (stock box). I understand Ford went to a recirculating ball type steering box in 1958. Has any one made a swap like this? Is the 58 box a bolt in (no mods). I assume that the 58 had the same type of column setup as the 54 (when everything is bolted together it's basically one piece (no joints) from the box to the steering wheel mount). Is this correct? With the 58 wheel in place (dished wheel?)is the height of the rim about the same as a stock 54? How did the horn wire run on the 58 - inside the tube like the 54?



Thanks for any help.
By PF Arcand - 18 Years Ago
Paul: I've been interested in the same swap, however I need it for a 57. Here's what I know, but it isn't complete.  First, your frame is similiar to a 55-6 frame is it not?  The 57 frame is substantially different so that could be a problem (?) The swap in a 57 is supposed to be fairly straight forward, however the Horn setup does not have the wire up the centre which was used thru 57. Yes, the 58 steering wheel is the dished safety wheel and on a 57 you need the 58 horn ring or at least the contact piece on the back of it to make it work. Beyond that I have not had a chance to actually compare the setup. Someone else maybe able to fill in the blanks for you..  
By Glen Henderson - 18 Years Ago
I can give you a partial answer Paul. The 58 box has the one piece shaft, the horn wire runs outside the shaft, and I think with the 58 wheel it will stick up more than the 54. I have never seen this done in a 54, but I know alot of guys have used it in 57's.

I am working on a setup for my 57 Custom now that I hope works out OK. I am using a gear from a 64 Galaxy with a colume from a 73 F100 with aftermarket wheel. I have all the parts, just waiting until the new shop is completed to get the frame back inside.

Maybe someone else can give you more info on using the 58 box in the 54.

By PF Arcand - 18 Years Ago
Paul: Further, another avenue is Concours Parts in Nevada. They list a shaft & worm assembly for 54's. It ain't cheap however. Ph.# 800-722-0009  
By paul2748 - 18 Years Ago
Thanks Glen and Paul for the information