68 tilt steering column too long

[gkweber3]

Guys, I must be missing something (or am just an idiot). I am adding power steering (got the Saginaw gear from a 68 bird). I am trying to install my original tilt column, but it seems nearly an inch too long when I try to line-up the three holes for the the under dash studs. Any one run across this?

[bertfam]

You're going to have to post some pictures. I can't imagine why you're having this issue if the column is original for your car.

Ed

[69Z28-RS]

Guys, I must be missing something (or am just an idiot). I am adding power steering (got the Saginaw gear from a 68 bird). I am trying to install my original tilt column, but it seems nearly an inch too long when I try to line-up the three holes for the the under dash studs. Any one run across this?

Is it possible taht you are attempting to install the under-column brace 'backwards'?   Try rotating it around, so the open end of the brace holes are towards the front and let me know?

[gkweber3]

Gary, I will take a look when I get home, but the brace can only go on one-way - there is one hole on the left of the column and two on the right (the hole closest to the firewall has the shim). Let me know if I am missing your point.

I am wondering if I should take the bolt out of the coupling so I can slide it back more to get room - then, see if I can bolt it up under the dash and then try to re-position the coupling prior to bolting it to the rag joint. I've R&Red the columns several times with no issues - not sure why I am having this problem with the p/s gear box.

[gkweber3]

Well my first thought was correct - I was an idiot. I did not realize it is a collapseable column. While pulling the steering wheel off, I must have lengthened the column. by standing it on end and pushing down, I has able to shorten the column enough to work.