Steering Wheel

[Lin]

I have some work underway on my steering.  There have been some shoddy things done in the past.  For example, the splines have been ground off the spindle and the wheel was held on with a  nut and a makeshift key arrangement.  Depending on price, we may replace the spindle and some other parts in the column, or get another column.  Either way, it looks like I should replace the steering wheel.  If we need a column, I guess I would call Nimco.  I was wondering though if there were more interesting options with regard to the steering wheel itself.

[buswarrior]

Someone will chime in with the details for using a tilt/telescopic column from a truck.

That way you get an upgrade and get rid of the mess some previous owner left you!

happy coaching!
buswarrior

[Bob Gil]

Don't use a GM pickup steering column I have one in this bus and the tilt has broken and will not stay when you turn corners it will snap lose and tilt on you.  I am planing on getting some thing done about it before I drive it too much.

[Utahclaimjumper]

Lin, not all coloums are splined, GMCs are tapered shaft with key and nuts and that system has been around automotive machines for about 100 years.>>>Dan

[Lin]

It looks like this MCI did have splines.  It has one key holding it in place, but had lots of play in the grove.  The wheel was held tight by tightening the nut down which caused it to scrape against the plate below.  I think this was partially the problem I had with the wheel not centering after turns. 

[jjrbus]

Our guru Fred has a bit on replaceing with a tilt and telescope.   

http://users.cwnet.com/~thall/fredhobe.htm     HTH  Jim

[Tom Y]

Lin, I have or had one that extends and tilts from a Gilig bus. If intrested I will look. I think the wheel got scraped already.   Tom Y

[Skykingrob]

Lin
The best used parts supplier for MCI is Caylor Supply in Rantoul Kansas. Sam Caylor is who you want to ask for. Rantoul is west of Kansas City. Now to the steering wheel itself, try www.vipwheels.com.

HTH

Rob
91 LeMirage XL
Missouri

[Lin]

Thanks for the tips.  I checked and bookmarked the Fred Hobe sight.  Lots of info.  I could not find the article on changing the steering column though.  Right now, mine is taken apart.  It needs a spindle, a u-joint, and a bushing.  If the parts come in reasonable, I guess I will have it put back together and use it.  The guy I have doing the work, the only diesel shop in my area, does not seem much into doing anything creative though.  If the parts come in to high, I will go for an upgrade.  I am guessing that the spindle would be the only thing that might be ridiculous, so checking around for a used one might be worth the effort if mine is interchangeable with later models. 

Tom,
If I have to go to another column, and a Gillig one will fit, I'll contact you about buying that one.

Rob,
The VIP wheels seem to be exceptional.  I am not sure if I am enough of a VIP to afford one now with all the other work I am doing, but I will be looking out for one the fits.

[Tom Y]

Lin, If you need one and this will work you can have it for shipping. I do not have the wheel and may have some shafts for it.  Tom Y

[Lin]

Tom,

I have emailed you regarding getting the steering column.  I hope the email address is still good.  If you do not receive them, let me know.  8.3.1.  8.1.8.1.1.6.3.  Lin