Steering column recommendations

[b5cuda]

Hello everyone, I'm doing a cuda resto mod – started with a '73 shell that needed tail, quarters, and front end.  Since it was a base model and needed everything, and I had mostly '70 parts, I'm rebuilding it as a '70.  But I'm wondering which steering column to go with – '70 or later?  Is there any difference other than locking mechanism, and is the wiring interchangeable?  Thanks for input! 
Bill

[Cuda Cody]

If you're building a 1970, I would go with a 1970 column.  The lockout is different and some other small things.  But if you found a great deal on a 71+ column it will work perfectly too.

[anlauto]

Opposite opinion here....because it's a resto-mod I would go with a 1971+ steering column and eliminate the steering column lock out linkage, it will likely only get in the way of your bigger exhaust, 5 speed transmission, etc....

I just did this very same thing with a 70 Challenger resto-mod I built.

[b5cuda]

Thanks Cody and Alan, great advice - you guys are the best!

[Cuda Cody]

Alan makes some good points!   

[gzig5]

Don't know if you are close, but there is a column on Chicago Craigslist.  No idea what year and looks like the end has been trimmed but maybe it would get your started.

https://chicago.craigslist.org/nwc/pts/d/mopar-dodge-challenger-cuda/6663138905.html

[anlauto]

Don't know if you are close, but there is a column on Chicago Craigslist.  No idea what year and looks like the end has been trimmed but maybe it would get your started.

https://chicago.craigslist.org/nwc/pts/d/mopar-dodge-challenger-cuda/6663138905.html

A little pricey considering the shaft has been cut.


To answer your other question....YES all the wiring is the same from 1970-1974.


If you're thinking aftermarket front suspension with rack and pinion.....you might want an aftermarket column.....The owner of the resto-mod I just did wished he had of put tilt steering in it as well.....something we might actually do down the road.

[ledphoot]

My restomod is going to use an IDIDIT aftermarket column.. If they ever get around to delivering it.. Been waiting for four months so far.

I was joking with the vendor today that they should change their name to IDidn't

[b5cuda]

Thanks for the confirmation on wiring Alan, and the lead on a column.  I already have a later steering column in my stash of parts so sounds like that is the way to go, at least for now.  I am staying with OEM front suspension, 5.7 engine, OEM 4-speed.  Still a long ways to go!

[Topcat]

There is one difference on 70' vs. the rest of the years.

The courtesy key light system.

70' is like a tube that funnels the light to where the key is.

71' and up is an actual light bulb inside a small cylinder cap with a green lens. 

[Topcat]

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Mopar-Steering-Column-Key-Light-1970-70-Cuda-Challenger-RoadRunner-A-B-E-Body/273193944859?epid=1323929718&hash=item3f9ba0c71b:g:tPsAAOSwi5pa7HyR

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Mopar-1971-76-A-B-E-Body-Steering-Column-Key-Light-Cuda-Charger-RoadRunner-Dart/260903778822?hash=item3cbf13ba06:g:GkQAAMXQaOVRlZ25

[61K T/A]

Also the shaft bearing mod can't be done on the 70 because of the lock out linkage. Will only work on 71-74 columns. I still have my original steering column in case I ever wanted to make my car back to original again.