Steering shaft swap questions

[dmac2590]

I just put a complete 80 cab on my 77 k15 frame, and the steering shaft is too short. Would everything fit in if I just reuse the steering column for the 77 cab? I wanna get some clarification on this before I start to yank the columns out or spend extra money on a new steering shaft. Thanks all.

 

[Strick]

Column should telescope out a bit to reach the gearbox. IF you have a body lift you may need to drill the plastic rivet from the shaft.

HS

 

[bucket]

Are you trying to use the '77 or the '80 shaft?

 

[dmac2590]

No body lift sir all stock 4wd 4 speed. Cab is off a 2wd 4 speed. I tried using the shaft from the 80. I thought it should telescope but it won't budge at all. I'll tru blasting it with some Kroil and see if it's just gunned up by chance.

 

[nvrenuf]

As far as I know, the lengths should interchange. I believe there are differences in the shape of the stub coming out of the column based on year but I'd bet the 77 vs 80 are the same.

The shaft is 2 pieces slipped together but there are plastic plugs at the overlap, either drill them out or use a torch to melt them out. There's probably 4"+ of overlap so once the plugs are gone it should easily stretch to fit.

That said, an upgrade would be a u-joint style steering shaft from a mid 90's Jeep XJ (can't remember the exact year range). Eliminating that rag joint with a u-joint will significantly tighten up the steering. It's one of the best mods I've done to my Blazer.

 

[dmac2590]

Thank you I'll look into the swap.

 

[Craig Nedrow]

Dan, I think this is what John is talking about.....I plan to install after frame is done. D and spline. blow up the last two.

 

[Craig Nedrow]

can only upload five files at a time ;>)

 

[Craig Nedrow]

Frame is pretty nice considering the guy that bought this was a logger lived in Poulsbo, used in the hills for thirty years, attested that these are good tough trucks. Some fun!!