Not addressing the Merc/Ford column, just the 57/58 box/column issue. The late great Ranchero Wiz put me to the 58 box in my 57 Ranch which was a matter of using the 58 box and solid steer rod and the rest stayed stock 57, just required shortening the 57 column tube 1.00", far better to escape in a cloud of tire smoke than honk at em, works for Yblock Fords and squids.



The 58 box change is worth reaching for a separate horn button.

Dan in Seattle

Paul J: I don't think there is any appreciable difference between the 57 & 58 steering ratios. However, the 58 & later boxes are a recirculating ball design which may be slightly easier to steer. Most of the conversions I've heard of, are because the 57 boxes are worn & after many years of service, develop flat spots. Mine was badly flat spotted. The flat spots were also common in 55-56 boxes, particularly the 2 tooth sector models. A word of caution on the conversion, make sure you acquire the entire column assembly including the horn parts. The 58 & later setup is entirely different. You also need the parts that attache to the back of the steering wheel horn ring setup. Without all of those parts you will be without a horn!. I found out the hard way...

Paul

I don 't know about the Merc column, I am converting the Fordomatic in my 57 to stick OD.  I am going to use a 58 column and steering box.  I was told that the 58 steering box has a better steering ratio than the 57.  I guess if I used a Hurst floor shifter I have, I wouldn't have to change the column, but I don't want to cut a hole in the floor.

Paul J. in IL

Paul J. - '57 E Code

Does any know if there is a difference between a Ford 3 speed column and a Mercury 3 speed column shift. I know the actual shifter you hold in your hand is different, but are the columns different?  this is for a 1954 model

tom in iowa

54 Merc wagon

54 sunvalley