Weld in steering shaft
 

My truck has 68 cab on 71 frame. I ‘m guessing the weld in the steering shaft I just discovered is some kind of work-around to make the 68 steering column work with the 71 steering box. The shaft has never had the spring and washer, was super loose, and when I took it apart I found the lower bearing pieces and little balls buried in the grease. It wasn’t till I cleaned it up that I discovered the weld in the shaft, and the little collar that is pressed on the shaft that maybe was supposed to have O rings? I have it all back together now, with a new bearing, spring and washer, and I will put the steering wheel back on next, but I am wondering about the welded shaft and the little collar on the shaft. Any feedback appreciated.

Re: Weld in steering shaft
 

I'd swap it.
I don't like it and it makes me nervous. If that weld ain't good, it could break. You can use your imagination from there.
Public safety hazard. no good.

Re: Weld in steering shaft
 

The bad part is not knowing why it was welded.

Did they just weld it to keep it from slipping?

Did they butt weld the two pieces together?

Did they weld it because when they slipped the two together there was no actual mechanical connection such as a male and female double D setup?

I'm with Greasy Harley I don't like the looks of it mainly because I don't know why they did it.

Re: Weld in steering shaft
 

I would be looking for anouther column a 68 column will bolt up to a 71 steering box
I would not drive with that with my kids

Re: Weld in steering shaft
 

OK then. Thanks for the perspective... I assume little collar shouldn’t be there either ? Ill probably modernize and go with Idit as budget allows.

Re: Weld in steering shaft
 

To me your weld looks like dried grease. If its a weld just get a new shaft, there is no good reason to weld a steering shaft.
The “collar” is almost certainly the center, or race of the lower bearing. Its retained by an o ring in the center, just tap-it off or beat it off if rusty.

Re: Weld in steering shaft
 

Here is how I did both of mine. 68 step and the 67 Ramp truck.:chevy: