Steering bracket fitting.

[ivaldes1]

Here we are fitting the steering bracket for Hay wagon to speedster project. It is a bit off. The front hole in the base to the frame lines up, see the bolt and nut is on red circle. The other is somewhat off (red circled) and the top one is definitely off. What might be the problem? I realize that I need to put the base flange under the rail not over it as pictured but that still means that the rear hole in the frame is still somewhat off and the top hole in the bracket/frame is definitely off, more forward than the bracket hole. Also that new felt washer replacement is really big compared to the space it is supposed to go. How does it go on?

[Alan Long]

I can only suggest it’s the incorrect one for that Chassis. Others will know!
Alan

[Humblej]

Ford used different steering columns and different firewalls for different years. This is one area where building up a car from different bits and pieces causes problems. For the steering column to line up you need the same firewall, steering column, and lower steering column bracket. Mix those up and something isnt going to line up. Looking at pictures of your project it looks like you have a 26-27 frame. The 26-27 steering column sits lower, the angle is less than earlier cars. If you are using a 26-27 steering column, your firewall steering column hole is in the wrong place.

[Allan]

To use the holes you have you need a 26-7 lower steering bracket, which may not have the column set at the angle you want. Fit the bracket to the steering column, line it up in the position required and drill holes in the frame to suit the bracket holes. You may need to weld closed un-needed holes. You will almost certainly need to add spacers between the bracket and the frame to maintain the angle required This is standard procedure when lowering the steering column on a speedster. Normally this is done before the components are painted, to make sure they actually fit as required.

Allan from down under.

[George House]

Yep... this is what I cautioned you about last year when you were seeking firewall brackets for an earlier firewall on a ‘26-‘27 frame. At that time I offered a correct earlier frame for $50. This steering column bracket quandary is an example of T parts not being totally interchangeable.