Re: [FWDLK] steering columns and tilt wheel and cc

["Bill K." <pontiac@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

So far as I know FWDLK era cruise control was handled by a dial on the
dash - at least, the '63 Imperial I had for about 3 weeks or so some 10
years ago had this 'select-o-cruise' kind of thing where you set the dial to
the desired speed (it read 1 through 10 around the knob I think) and could
hit the gas for passing and let off and it would return to the set speed.
Can't remember how you let off it.. I think the car had an owners manual in
it and that was how I figured out what it was.   Wish I had been able to
keep that car - it just needed the brakes done.


So anyways, you could change the column but adding a cruise system is a
little more work than that.   If the MoPar columns are in any way similar to
GM (using the 'rag joint' connector) you can pretty much swap anything to
anything post '57 so long as the length of column fits your car.  You will I
am sure find that factory tilt columns came in only the Imperial and the
highest end of the other cars - Chrysler New Yorker, convertibles, etc.  I
know GM had them by '64 but I am not sure on the MoPars.

If you get too new, then you wind up with two ignition switches as the
columns after about '68 or so have one on them so the wheel can be locked.
So then you have to cap the hole in the dash most likely.

You could also look into the aftermarket stuff for the street rod crowd and
see what there is available.  Maybe there is a column option that would give
you a cruise stalk but not an ignition switch on it -

Your car must have a fuse block in it now someplace, unless someone wired it
out ages ago, so I am a little confused by what you're saying there, but a
new wiring system is not a bad idea if theres any reason to suspect trouble
in the old one.


Bill K.

----- Original Message -----
From: "john bartell" <jrbartell@xxxxxxx>
To: <L-FORWARDLOOK@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Wednesday, November 05, 2003 10:59 AM
Subject: [FWDLK] steering columns and tilt wheel and cc


Hi all,
    Since getting started back on the 59 Suburban project, I find myself
thinking of updating the steering column to a tilt column with cruise
controls.  Has anyone done this?  I would really appreciate any info,
especially a detailed conversion if anyone knows how.  Any of the Fwdlk. era
Chryslers have tilt-cruise steering columns?
    I am thinking of installing a new wiring harness...one with a fuse
block...for future ad-ons.  I have talked to one manufacturer, and they can
make them with a Chrysler plug to fit modern steering columns.  (cruise,
dimmer, turn sig., horn)  I know, not all original, but I like the idea of
not frying my car with old wires and connectors, after investing mega $$$$$
to do a "restorification."   I like a mix of the past and present.   My
wagon is being built to drive anywhere in any weather.  And, to be seen,
heard and enjoyed.  After all, what does a new car cost and who actually
notices them on the highway!
    I hope this stirs up some interesting feedback like the disc brake
thread has!
    John in WI where the weather is changing by the minute...wasn't it just
summer?

For Sale:
2000 Dodge Ram 4x4...5.9 auto reg. cab. short box loaded     call or email
for info   715-743-2462   jrbartell@xxxxxxx

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