I'm building a '30 Model A the way I wish I could have in 1962. I would like to retain the stock Model A steering column, but replace the Model A steering wheel with a '36-'48 Ford steering wheel. I realize the light switch will need to be relocated and horn button maybe rewired? My question is, will the Model A stock steering column accept the later steering wheels? Appreciate your comments. Thanks
The taper is different. I've heard of guys changing the taper on the A shaft to accept a later banjo, with mixed results. Oh, and congratulations on your first post!
The taper is not different, its bigger because the A uses a larger shaft . Model A steering boxes are not too desireable, why not a better box and slip your model A mast over it? Same size on the box collar I believe. Use a 32 34 box, or F1 box, or F100. All can be made to use the light switch / horn rod
Look up ‘STEERING WHEELS THAT WILL WORK ON A MODEL A COLUMN’ over on the hamb’s sister site the ford barn May answer your question
Welcome aboard As said the taper is larger because it’s higher up the shaft so different but the same. The picture will explain. You can change to a later box like @rusty valley recommended like a 1932 to 1934 box is almost a bolt in. The mounting snout of the 32-34 boxes come off and can be replaced with a model a 30-31 mounting snout. This way you can retain the horn button and use a later wheel 32-42 has the same taper on most applications. Your in the right place to learn from elders and make a cool hot rod.
If you really want it to look right, you need the column that matches the wheel you intend to use. 35-39 have a nice flare that blends with the wheel. 40-48 have a much larger base that blends with the wheel. On the 40-47 use a pickup column since they are floor shift and don’t have the bump out for the column shift.
If you have an old A steering wheel the center hub is easy to remove I went backwards and fitted a T steering wheel to my A shaft