Re: [AMC-list] Safety Weinie

[Frank Swygert <farna@xxxxxxx>]

The rag joints main purpose is to isolate the steering wheel from vibration and it  IS pretty tough, but in a frontal collision where the "frame" structure collapses the joint will bend and pivot the steering column up rather than push it straight back, whereas a solid shaft from box to steering wheel won't -- the column guides the shaft straight back, holding the steering box in place rather than letting it pivot with the collapsing body. The collapsible shaft is part of the safety system as well, of course. It allows the body to collapse a bit more before affecting the steering column much. Some will only collapse about 4", but that's 4" closer before the column pivots or the steering wheel pushes back toward you. A rag joint only is better than a solid shaft, not ad good as a collapsible shaft/rag joint combination. The rag joint isn't too hard to install for a bit of added safety without affecting the outward appearance of the interior. It would be difficult to find a col
lapsible column that would look stock. I must admit that newer columns don't really look out of place in 60s cars, but anyone familiar with what they should look like will recognize the difference. The late 80s S-10 column I have looks almost like it could be stock, but not quite...

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Date: Sun, 20 Dec 2009 23:01:29 +0000
From: wrambler242@xxxxxxxxxxx

I don't buy the idea a rag joint would make much difference any way. Those things are tough and they have locating pins that would just lock tighter as the box is driven rear ward. 
  Best bet in my mind is the collapsing double d section. That's why I picked up the intermediate shaft from the ZJ to go with ZJ box going in the vert. I have the true 65 tilt column, not changing that out. Just hoping the massive length of the front frames on the 65 will do. 
  That and hope to never NEED it.

--
Frank Swygert
Publisher, "American Motors Cars" 
Magazine (AMC)
For all AMC enthusiasts
http://farna.home.att.net/AMC.html
(free download available!)


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