Different steering column lengths

[55vicky]

I was talking to a mechanic friend of mine who has converted a couple of
brand x's from auto to manual transmission(he's a brand x guy) and he doesn't understand why I would need a different length steering column. I
want to put in an np435 in place of the auto. Frankly, I would like to understand it better myself.
At least that's what it sounds like I need from what I have read on this
forum. Any help will be appreciated
Thanks, Dave

[FORDification]

The only time you need to switch steering columns is if you're converting to power steering and using a Saginaw box, since the PS box is larger (longer) than the MS box. There is no difference in column length for automatic vs. manual transmissions.

[55vicky]

I am so glad to hear that because I was going to stay with the auto. Every
manual truck I could find had the column cannibalized either in part or totally.
Now I only need the upper bearing for it!
Thanks Keith, you da man!!

[fordman]

check with lmctruck.com for the bearing they probably have it.