Steering column swap '86 on '71? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

Orion 762 · 05-14-2004, 01:11 AM

Before trying this, thought I'd see if anyone has done this before, or if there are major issues to consider.

Wanting to replace the original column on my '71 Cheyenne with a "tilt" column from an '86 Silverado.

I don't plan to move the original "ignition key" or "wiper control" from the '71. Will keep them "as-is" for now.

The new column WILL have to handle the signals, hazard lights, and horn.

I've got color schematics for the '71, so I pretty well understand "what wire goes where" on the '71. Any hints on the wire/color coding on the '86 column?

Finally, what "mechanical challenges" are there, or "is this even possible"??

Any help is appreciated . . . Orion 762

454_72_4X4 · 05-14-2004, 02:03 AM

It should be possible but I can't help you on the wiring.
I can tell you a friend of mine had a 67 or 68 truck with a newer style column, (with the key switch on the column), in it. He still used the ignition switch in the dash but I can't remember about the turn signals or hazards. It's been 10 years ago or longer.

Longhorn Man · 05-14-2004, 10:33 AM

The diameter of the column is larger on the later columns, so you'll have to modify your inst panel and the bottom of the dash most likely.
It has been done before.
Why not just get a van tilt? (71 - 80 GM vans) Looks bone stock, has no key, and they are dirt cheap in wrecking yards.

05-14-2004, 01:11 AM	#1
Orion 762 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Mississippi Posts: 36	Steering column swap '86 on '71? Before trying this, thought I'd see if anyone has done this before, or if there are major issues to consider. Wanting to replace the original column on my '71 Cheyenne with a "tilt" column from an '86 Silverado. I don't plan to move the original "ignition key" or "wiper control" from the '71. Will keep them "as-is" for now. The new column WILL have to handle the signals, hazard lights, and horn. I've got color schematics for the '71, so I pretty well understand "what wire goes where" on the '71. Any hints on the wire/color coding on the '86 column? Finally, what "mechanical challenges" are there, or "is this even possible"?? Any help is appreciated . . . Orion 762

05-14-2004, 02:03 AM	#2
454_72_4X4 Registered User Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: N.E. MO Posts: 1,749	It should be possible but I can't help you on the wiring. I can tell you a friend of mine had a 67 or 68 truck with a newer style column, (with the key switch on the column), in it. He still used the ignition switch in the dash but I can't remember about the turn signals or hazards. It's been 10 years ago or longer. __________________ 72 C20 4X4 454 4 speed 89 Trans Am (was) 305 TPI 700r4 93 C1500 2wd Extended cab 350 700r4 98 Sonoma (TPI outa the Trans Am) 03 Yamaha 660 Raptor 03/04 660 Raptor 07 700 Raptor 85 Honda Odyssey

05-14-2004, 10:33 AM	#3
Longhorn Man its all about the +6 inches Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Hilliard Ohio Posts: 2,690	The diameter of the column is larger on the later columns, so you'll have to modify your inst panel and the bottom of the dash most likely. It has been done before. Why not just get a van tilt? (71 - 80 GM vans) Looks bone stock, has no key, and they are dirt cheap in wrecking yards.



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