Fitzback
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Age: 60
Loc: St-Hyacinthe, Qc. Can.
Reg: 01-23-08
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03-22-16 03:33 PM - Post#2617112
Some of you follow my build thread, I never talk about the electric Power Steering system that I sell since 5 years now. I never talk about it because my goal here was to share, and take information, and, I didn't buy one for me since I don't get the car finished.
When I start the car last September I had a steering box issues. Not something important to start a post for. I ask Chevytalk friends if anyone could help me, and yes TGoss raise his hand and find me a great steering column.
This winter I told to myself it was a good moment to put a electric Power Steering and promote it since, now, I have one in my own car.
Would you be interested if I make a How To post about that? and, for the first time, I'll promote the product.
Also, you must think « the system must work on 12 volts, and his car is 6», you're right, but, I'm working on a device for make the kit running without changing anything on 6 volts cars. First test as been made with success.
Let me know!
Fitz.
La vie est belle! 1953 Pontiac Pathfinder deLuxe 2 doors sedan + Victory Vision tour
Fitz
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mahlmann
Frequent Contributor
Posts: 1947
Age: 80
Loc: Las Cruces, NM
Reg: 01-20-11
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 03-22-16 03:38 PM - Post#2617113
In response to Fitzback
I would like to hear about it. We Just got a new #ord Explorer with electric steering and it feels great! Tell us more!
Mike Ahlmann
Las Cruces, NM
'50 Tin Woodies (two) Ramon and Willard
'58 Impala Sport Coupe
'16 Ford Explorer 3.5 EcoBoost - Red Rocket
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wbeaton
Contributor
Posts: 695
Age: 50
Loc: Hamilton, ON
Reg: 03-07-14
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03-22-16 04:33 PM - Post#2617126
In response to mahlmann
I would love to see a build thread.
1951 Chevy Styleline Deluxe 2 Door Sedan
1954 235 with Isky Cam, Shaved Head
Dual Carter YF 787S Carbs on Offenhauser Intake
Split Manifold Dual Exhaust
3 Speed with 3.55 Differential
12V Conversion with Alternator
Pertronix Ignition |
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 Bel Air kiwi
DECEASED
Posts: 4558
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03-22-16 07:03 PM - Post#2617165
In response to Fitzback
Hi Fitz, I always appreciate your how to's and if you make something that adds power assist into a stock system I am sure the forum bosses won't mind you promoting it a little.
I am only familiar with this type as they are often retro fitted to historic rally cars here to allow the steering to match the performance and tire improvements.
In our region the steering would have to maintain positive control in the event of an assistance failure and my understanding is most systems do this. The other thing to think about is that most early steering columns are not collapsible and were a major contributor to driver deaths in minor crashes. The addition of a sliding sheath type collapsible element may also be worthwhile.
The beauty of these column assist units is they don't need a pump in the engine bay, and can look very stock.
The electrical draw off form these units and fans is going to require a serious alternator and belt drive. Some modern alternators are taking 4Hp to drive and a v belt just won't handle it.
It needs at least a 6-8 rib serpentine style to not slip and last a reasonable time.
Cheers kiwi
48 3100 RHD, 51 Deluxe 4DR RHD, 51 Bel Air parts car, 52 Bel Air P-Glide LHD. Others 23T, 32 Tudor, 58 Edsel pacer 4DR HDT, 79 F250 351C RHD. 69,70,82 Capri. No mobile, no TV, and no Jap cars.
"They made a desert and called it peace." Tacitus |
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 rrausch
"19th Year" Silver Supporting Member
Posts: 15207
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Reg: 04-07-03
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03-22-16 08:15 PM - Post#2617184
In response to Bel Air kiwi
Interesting. I'd love to learn more about this Fitz.
1953 210 Convertible, 261 with dual Carter YF 966S carbs, P.S., Remote Bendix P.B. Booster.
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usmile4
"16th Year Silver Supporting Member
Posts: 4376
Age: 77
Loc: Aurora, Illinois
Reg: 08-12-05
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03-22-16 08:18 PM - Post#2617185
In response to rrausch
I would be interested in the unit and to see how to install and operate.
Bill Gommel
49 chevy Styleline (Sold), 51 Styleline 2 dr Special, 235 (from a 61 truck) bored .060 over, Dual Carter/Webers, Fenton Headers, T5- 5 speed with a 56 rear end. |
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drew1987
"11th Year" Silver Supporting Member
Posts: 3923
Age: 37
Loc: Western NY
Reg: 02-23-14
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03-23-16 04:28 AM - Post#2617220
In response to usmile4
Hi,
I think the technology has come a LONG way since I first experienced it in 2003 in my mom's 2004 Saturn ION (still her daily). Take, for example, Toyota Minivans and their Avalon, or this generation Impala.
I am VERY interested as the point of my build is to have a very comfortable car that is relaxing to drive. I feel power steering is the only thing missing but I cannot afford nor do I want a M2, just plain can't afford or find a 1953-4 power box, and don't have enough Intel on the 90's Astro van conversion.
Let's hear it!
Andrew D. Carapella (Drew)
1950 Chevy Styleline Deluxe
1954 Chevy 3100
Various other "modern classics" |
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Fitzback
Frequent Contributor
Posts: 1281
Age: 60
Loc: St-Hyacinthe, Qc. Can.
Reg: 01-23-08
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03-24-16 06:47 PM - Post#2617556
In response to drew1987
Ok, here we go!
The advantage of the system is:
Get power steering without clipping anything!
You don't change suspension geometry, you don't change any steer parts, no alignment needed. You keep the number of steering turn intact. You just get help to turn the wheel, only.
My system in NEW not reman or from junkyard, including electronic. I'm with the manufacturer, the kit is made in France and I imported them directly. NO USED PARTS.
No pump, no hoses, no leaks, no noise.
The system, as pictures will shows, is place between the steering and the gear box. The movement or rotation is sense by a sensor and with the help of a controller, send just enough current to the motor when needed. This motor is connected to a gear, to your steering shaft.
When driving in straight line, everything is shut off. No current demand, no motor idle running.
For 6 volts cars, I'll wait a bit to give information, since the second «converter» will be tested on my Pontiac soon. The first was running fine, but the box kept internal temperature too high. The second one, will be in extruded aluminum (or something like) for heat dissipation.
Fitz.
La vie est belle! 1953 Pontiac Pathfinder deLuxe 2 doors sedan + Victory Vision tour
Fitz
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Edited by Fitzback on 03-24-16 06:50 PM. Reason for edit: No reason given.
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40grit
Contributor
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Loc: Chattanooga, Tn
Reg: 07-08-13
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03-25-16 12:53 AM - Post#2617583
In response to Fitzback
Just found your thread Fitz. Subscribed.....I'm in!
John
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Old Chevy Soldier
"13th Year" Gold Supporting Member
Posts: 335
Loc: Central Montana
Reg: 03-12-12
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03-25-16 06:29 AM - Post#2617638
In response to Fitzback
Will you show the installation process? Also, any idea of the cost (In U.S. dollars) for the complete kit?
| Life is to short to ride an ugly horse or drive a Ford |
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Fin
Contributor
Posts: 450
Loc: Finland, Northern Europe
Reg: 09-27-10
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03-25-16 08:05 AM - Post#2617656
In response to Old Chevy Soldier
Waiting in anticipation.
210 Handyman -54, 235 with Isky Racing cam. Slightly lowered wannabe rat.
To be continued...
For sunny days, Alfa Romeo Spider Lusso. |
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53belair
Frequent Contributor
Posts: 2376
Age: 69
Loc: Ellerslie, Georgia
Reg: 03-25-07
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03-25-16 07:47 PM - Post#2617774
In response to Fin
You don't know the cost? I assume then that the system isn't complete, and is still in the development stage.
Waiting in anticipation.
1953 Belair Sport Coupe,350/350/Fatman/Dako ta Digital/American Shifter/Southern Air/Ciadella Interiors
1967 Chevelle 396 Muncie
2010 Camaro II-SS
2011 Camaro Pace Car
2012 Tahoe |
Edited by 53belair on 03-25-16 07:49 PM. Reason for edit: No reason given.
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wbeaton
Contributor
Posts: 695
Age: 50
Loc: Hamilton, ON
Reg: 03-07-14
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03-26-16 02:26 AM - Post#2617787
In response to 53belair
You don't know the cost? I assume then that the system isn't complete, and is still in the development stage.
$1590. I assume that is in Canadian dollars. Here is Fitz's eBay ad.
http://m.ebay.com/itm/250677289720?_mwB anner=1
1951 Chevy Styleline Deluxe 2 Door Sedan
1954 235 with Isky Cam, Shaved Head
Dual Carter YF 787S Carbs on Offenhauser Intake
Split Manifold Dual Exhaust
3 Speed with 3.55 Differential
12V Conversion with Alternator
Pertronix Ignition |
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53belair
Frequent Contributor
Posts: 2376
Age: 69
Loc: Ellerslie, Georgia
Reg: 03-25-07
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03-26-16 06:58 AM - Post#2617838
In response to wbeaton
Thanks. I obviously didn't read the thread properly. 
1953 Belair Sport Coupe,350/350/Fatman/Dako ta Digital/American Shifter/Southern Air/Ciadella Interiors
1967 Chevelle 396 Muncie
2010 Camaro II-SS
2011 Camaro Pace Car
2012 Tahoe |
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Jim53066
Contributor
Posts: 166
Loc: SE Wisconsin
Reg: 11-07-13
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03-26-16 07:07 AM - Post#2617840
In response to wbeaton
I don't want to rain on anyone's parade, but thought I would post because I am planning on installing the electric power steering on my 52.
I have purchased the parts already, a Saturn Vue steering assist unit, they can be had in most bone yards for $70 to $100.( more from the opportunists on ebay)
There is also someone that has been selling an electrical control box on Ebay for $65.00. He has sold hundreds already. The box takes the place of the ECU that would control the steering unit in the original car.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/182008071875?_trk sid=p2060...
It looks like the OP's kit has all the bushings and adapters worked out and that is a big plus as I have just started to work out what I will be needing for my install.
As for the OP's system value? There is something to be said for buying a kit that has everything included, where all the parts are new, and the engineering has been worked out for you. Only you can make the decision of how much it is worth?
There are a bunch of Youtube videos and magazine articles on the electric power steering for classic cars out there, do a search and you will have days of watching and reading.
It looks like a perfect solution for our old Chevy's, much cheaper than a mustang, or Corvette system, and much easier than a frame clip or a Jaguar.
I figure it will be next winters project and I plan to do a build thread on the system when I get to it.
Jim
Edited by Jim53066 on 03-26-16 07:14 AM. Reason for edit: No reason given.
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raycow
DECEASED
Posts: 27999
Loc: San Francisco, CA
Reg: 11-26-02
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03-26-16 09:51 AM - Post#2617859
In response to Jim53066
May I correctly assume that this unit precludes the use of a column shift?
Ray
| Those who choose an automatic transmission want transportation. Those who choose a manual transmission want to drive. |
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Jim53066
Contributor
Posts: 166
Loc: SE Wisconsin
Reg: 11-07-13
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03-26-16 01:44 PM - Post#2617897
In response to raycow
Raycow,
It would without a doubt be harder to install due to the shifter rod, but it might be possible with a lot of fabrication. But with the shifter rod where it is it would probably hang down quite a bit from the dash, it may get in the way of reaching the pedals. (I have a floor shifter)
The trick to mounting it is making a bracket that holds it solidly. The steering column is cut out, and the unit replaces the cut out section which is about 13 inches (plus the u-joints) and ties into the steering shaft.
Obviously this would mean replacing most of the steering column with a newer steering shaft, and making up some type of bearings to hold the old shaft sections solidly within what is left.
Right now I am trying to determine if I am going to mount it inside under the dash, or under the hood. Under the hood would mean enclosing it in some type of cover to eliminate moisture.
Jim
Edited by Jim53066 on 03-26-16 01:45 PM. Reason for edit: No reason given.
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Fitzback
Frequent Contributor
Posts: 1281
Age: 60
Loc: St-Hyacinthe, Qc. Can.
Reg: 01-23-08
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03-26-16 06:55 PM - Post#2617957
In response to Old Chevy Soldier
Will you show the installation process? Also, any idea of the cost (In U.S. dollars) for the complete kit?
Yes I will since the kit is already installed and tested. As stated before, the kit is new and fully warranty.
I need to put picture from my phone or camera to the PC and resize, and will post right after.
Fitz.
La vie est belle! 1953 Pontiac Pathfinder deLuxe 2 doors sedan + Victory Vision tour
Fitz
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Bel Air kiwi
DECEASED
Posts: 4558
Loc: New Zealand
Reg: 04-24-14
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03-27-16 01:26 AM - Post#2617982
In response to Jim53066
Hi Jim, I have never seen a Saturn Vue so could you post images of the power steer unit.
Am I correct in guessing that the original ECU was giving speed sensitive assistance?
Cheers Kiwi
48 3100 RHD, 51 Deluxe 4DR RHD, 51 Bel Air parts car, 52 Bel Air P-Glide LHD. Others 23T, 32 Tudor, 58 Edsel pacer 4DR HDT, 79 F250 351C RHD. 69,70,82 Capri. No mobile, no TV, and no Jap cars.
"They made a desert and called it peace." Tacitus |
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Old Chevy Soldier
"13th Year" Gold Supporting Member
Posts: 335
Loc: Central Montana
Reg: 03-12-12
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03-27-16 06:35 AM - Post#2618024
In response to Fitzback
Fitz, Thanks for the reply. Tim
| Life is to short to ride an ugly horse or drive a Ford |
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Jim53066
Contributor
Posts: 166
Loc: SE Wisconsin
Reg: 11-07-13
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03-27-16 06:55 AM - Post#2618030
In response to Bel Air kiwi
Kiwi,
Here are some pics, hope they help. Looks very similar, or the same as the OP's unit. Again, there is something to be said about buying new and having all the issues worked out for you. I am just too cheap to go that route.
And YES, it originally had variable power steering through the CPU, that is what the kit from ebay does, it sets the amount of resistance.
Jim
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Fitzback
Frequent Contributor
Posts: 1281
Age: 60
Loc: St-Hyacinthe, Qc. Can.
Reg: 01-23-08
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03-27-16 03:19 PM - Post#2618136
In response to Fitzback
Now,
I started with a kit like the pictures shows. Everything is there, with bushing ready to be cut to the need.
For those who want to follow the «used» route, hope this thread will help you if you need it.
Following that, you must «positioning» the system on the column, up/down and 360° rotation.
In this typical kit, a joint as been added for a particular application.
La vie est belle! 1953 Pontiac Pathfinder deLuxe 2 doors sedan + Victory Vision tour
Fitz
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Edited by Fitzback on 03-27-16 03:43 PM. Reason for edit: No reason given.
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Fitzback
Frequent Contributor
Posts: 1281
Age: 60
Loc: St-Hyacinthe, Qc. Can.
Reg: 01-23-08
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03-27-16 03:29 PM - Post#2618138
In response to Fitzback
I was particularly lucky to get another column, so I could work on it without removing the other right away.
Now it's time to prepare to cut the column. The measure were taken on the car's column and transferred on the «used» one.
It's time to get the disc cutter out!
La vie est belle! 1953 Pontiac Pathfinder deLuxe 2 doors sedan + Victory Vision tour
Fitz
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Fitzback
Frequent Contributor
Posts: 1281
Age: 60
Loc: St-Hyacinthe, Qc. Can.
Reg: 01-23-08
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03-27-16 03:40 PM - Post#2618140
In response to Fitzback
The upper part of the column need to be cut a little bit internally, to fit correctly over the system flange. It's important to do this right now because you'll need a proper fit to keep your total length always accurate. Mostly for your second cut. And fit two set screws to keep it solid on the system.
Since your top tube is fitted on the system, you can measure and cut on the lower side of the column
La vie est belle! 1953 Pontiac Pathfinder deLuxe 2 doors sedan + Victory Vision tour
Fitz
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Bel Air kiwi
DECEASED
Posts: 4558
Loc: New Zealand
Reg: 04-24-14
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03-27-16 03:57 PM - Post#2618144
In response to Jim53066
Hi Jim, Thanks for the pics. What sensors would be needed to keep the ECU working and maintain variable rate assistance. I am guessing it's mainly speed? Perhaps a gear selector input? Cheers Kiwi.
48 3100 RHD, 51 Deluxe 4DR RHD, 51 Bel Air parts car, 52 Bel Air P-Glide LHD. Others 23T, 32 Tudor, 58 Edsel pacer 4DR HDT, 79 F250 351C RHD. 69,70,82 Capri. No mobile, no TV, and no Jap cars.
"They made a desert and called it peace." Tacitus |
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Fitzback
Frequent Contributor
Posts: 1281
Age: 60
Loc: St-Hyacinthe, Qc. Can.
Reg: 01-23-08
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03-27-16 03:59 PM - Post#2618145
In response to Fitzback
It's time to work on the lower parts. In order to bolt the system to the lower tube, I choose to be more strong than weak. I welded a plate as straight as possible at the top of the lower tube. Before that, I need to disassemble the gear box to make room for the machining a little bit later. I shave the plate to put it 90° straight with the tube and the system. I need room also for the center hole.
ATTENTION: you can use another route, lighter if you want by using the center shaft as a guide for welding a plate. Since welding can make your parts moving and make your kit not aligned correctly after, so I choose a safer way.
La vie est belle! 1953 Pontiac Pathfinder deLuxe 2 doors sedan + Victory Vision tour
Fitz
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Fitzback
Frequent Contributor
Posts: 1281
Age: 60
Loc: St-Hyacinthe, Qc. Can.
Reg: 01-23-08
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03-27-16 04:14 PM - Post#2618150
In response to Fitzback
Now a pre-assembling is necessary to see were we are now.
After, it's time to weld the splined bushing to the lower shaft, and it's time to weld the sleeve between the upper shaft and the system shaft.
La vie est belle! 1953 Pontiac Pathfinder deLuxe 2 doors sedan + Victory Vision tour
Fitz
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Fitzback
Frequent Contributor
Posts: 1281
Age: 60
Loc: St-Hyacinthe, Qc. Can.
Reg: 01-23-08
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03-27-16 04:57 PM - Post#2618171
In response to Fitzback
Assembly mostly completed! But wait, don't forget the shifter....!
With the system and column assembled, we need to figure it out the shifter. I made some mock-up, and the final design look like this.
La vie est belle! 1953 Pontiac Pathfinder deLuxe 2 doors sedan + Victory Vision tour
Fitz
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Fitzback
Frequent Contributor
Posts: 1281
Age: 60
Loc: St-Hyacinthe, Qc. Can.
Reg: 01-23-08
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03-27-16 05:03 PM - Post#2618175
In response to Fitzback
The final look!
La vie est belle! 1953 Pontiac Pathfinder deLuxe 2 doors sedan + Victory Vision tour
Fitz
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Fitzback
Frequent Contributor
Posts: 1281
Age: 60
Loc: St-Hyacinthe, Qc. Can.
Reg: 01-23-08
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03-27-16 05:15 PM - Post#2618181
In response to Fitzback
The threaded upper shifter support has to be cut just a little bit to be installed by the interior of the car. It will be easier that way for the installation.
La vie est belle! 1953 Pontiac Pathfinder deLuxe 2 doors sedan + Victory Vision tour
Fitz
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