Making the Steering Column Safer
Most 1960 through 1966 Chevy 1/2 ton pickups have a solid steering shaft from the steering gear box to the steering wheel. A direct impact to the steering gear box from another vehicle can drive the steering shaft into the chest of the driver. GM improved the design in the 1970s. The newer design uses a DD shaped telescoping sleeve and steering shaft so the column will collapse on impact.
These photos include some details of my upgrade to PS, but the shaft and lower sleeve modifications can be done without the PS upgrade.
My salvage yard lower sleeve and rag joint were in good shape. I cleaned and inspected them to be sure they were ready to use.
I mocked up the intermediate DD shaft and the U-joint to determine where I should cut the original shaft. Measure twice and cut once.