Removing steering column when fitting headers

Postby Lars-Göran Sundblad (Lars » 14 Jul 2002 19:07

I'm fitting headers (FlowTech) to my -70 Challenger 440. I realize I have to remove/move the steering column to get the headers in place. How to do this the easiest way? I have power steering and just above the power steering the steering column is divided by a splines socket with a locking bolt. I have taken the bolt out but the socket won't split apart. Do I have to loosen the whole stering column? And if yes, how and where? Do I pull the whole steering column backwards with the steering wheel? Any potential problems with the steering lock? Thanks for answers? / Lars

P.S. I post this in both exhaust and steering section. Hope OK Dave. D.S.
Lars-Göran Sundblad (Lars
 

Removing steering column when fitting headers

Postby John P (Blue) » 14 Jul 2002 22:32

Lars, once the bolt or roll pin is out just lever the splined coupler off the box, they are not normally on that tight , a little "persuasion" is all it takes! remove the trim from around the column under the dashboard, and there should be 3 bolts holding the column up and another 3 on the firewall, disconnect the wiring multiplug and thats it! pull the whole lot out. ( I'm assuming you don't have colunm shift ) The last set of headers I fitted to a 'cuda had to be cut and welded to clear the column, I hope yours are a better fit!
John P (Blue)
 

Removing steering column when fitting headers

Postby Dave-R (Roppa440) » 15 Jul 2002 7:46

Normally there is no need to remove the steering when fitting headers to a Challenger. But it probably does make it a bit easier.

The normal method is to get the front of the car as high as possible, remove the starter motor, and unbolt the drivers side engine mount. Then jack the engine up on that side (removing the passenger side exhaust is essential) and you have room! You have to kind of fit the headers and the starter motor at the same time which is a fiddle.
Dave-R (Roppa440)
 

Removing steering column when fitting headers

Postby Lars-Göran Sundblad (Lars » 15 Jul 2002 14:48

Thanks!
Lars-Göran Sundblad (Lars