Steering column question

I would like to separate the ignition key switch from the steering column and position it on the dashboard for authenticity (when I actually get to that point in the build).
However, I am having some problems undrstanding how I would actually do this. My first thought was to try and locate a late 50's steering column which would not include the key switch, but this is proving to be easier said than done.
Does anyone know how to proceed with this? Could someone who has this in their car, let me know how it was done for them?
I have been looking in Hot Rodder magazine and seen some straight steering columns and indicator switch blocks that clamp on the outside (a la Bus). Has anyone tried using these?
Cheers,
Jim.

I'm assuming you have a VW steering column. If so, you must be using a 1968-later setup. If you want to retain your current steering wheel, you'll need to find a 1960-67 steering column tube. The inner shaft will still be useable. You'll just need to lenghten the ignition wire to the correct placement on the dash.
If you purchase a Pre '59 steering column, you'll need the complete assembly (tube, column & horn contact brush) and chances are, you'll also need to purchase either another steering wheel adapter or purchase a new wheel altogether as the steering splines are quite different from Pre '59 compared to '60-later
Either steering columns will cost approx $10-$30 so it should fit within even the smallest budgets.

Jim,

If you're looking for "authenticity" rather than AUTHENCITY, you might want to use the column and column mounted blinker from a '68 Bus. Your original steering shaft will match up with the column (although you may have to shorten the column tubing a bit) and the blinker set-up will match your wiring. When you paint everything cream/ivory it looks very vintage and you retain the "flash high beam" option when pulling back on the blinker shaft.

Nice easy install, modern features, and vintage look.

Luck,

TC

TC and Glenn,

Thanks for the pointers.

Jim.

Jim...Don't forget to re-adjust the stearing gear box to match the new angle on the column.
Paul

John Steele did exactly that on my outlaw speedster. He installled a '66 (I think) steering column to get around the ignition interlocks. The turn signal system is then bolted on to the column. The key switch is separate on the dash. When I went to get some spare keys made NOBODY had any blanks. Finally called John, and he told me he used a marine ignition switch to get away from all the interlocks (I guess nobody hot wires boats?). John also includes a battery cable disconnect switch on all his cars, for secondary security and service work. All works fine.

Jim , I am going through the same issue. I found a used 65-67 beetle column off Samba for $50 which included the turn signal switch and shipping . It was a deal. I have come up with a slight modification for the turn signal. I did like the plain old signal arm . I wanted some thing vintage looking yet with some flash to it. Below are some pictures. It took some effort ans a few Bud's to make last night. I am working on getting a 2006 Ford GT -40 starter button . My ol' buddy in Detroit is trying dig one up. They are sweet looking.
Good luck ,
Joe

Joe,

Where did you get that cool shaft for the blinker. It just looks great and in final assembly will be beautiful! NICE JOB!!

TC

Watson Motorsports . The end button is the dimmer switch.

Jim,
Confession time, I am the ebay bidder that got the column you had bid on .
I didn't realize you, "were you" Would have gone to another source..........
Alan M

Alan,

No problem, I recognised your 'old' username when you bid, so didn't increase the price after that.

Hopefully this weekend, one way or another, I will have a column anyway. Tomorrow I am going back to the bloke who I bought a vw pan and some other stuff from a while back. In his barn he has enough spares to start a VW garage. Along with a few beetles from late 50's and early 60's he has 3 356 coupes in unrestored condition, a coupe that is almost concours and one of the early speedsters with the Wirth roller crank! (Now if I can only persuade him to sell me one of those...)

On Sunday, for those in the Great Lakes region, there is the Greater Toledo VW Club annual show and swap meet.

Jim.

Years ago, I was lucky enough to drive one of those early 356's with the roller-bearing crank. The engine builder was with me (he looked a little nervous, but we were just going for coffee on back roads) and all he told me was "never, never lug this engine below 2 grand.....in fact, try to keep it up over 3 grand at all times!"

I found out later that lugging them places undue power pulses on the crank bearings and destroys them. It was a lot of fun, though, screaming around in 2nd and 3rd on back roads with the engine just wailing in the back!

gn

Gordon,

Was talking with the guy about the very same thing today when I saw him. He explained some of the rigmarole that is involved in getting them warmed up and running sweetly.

He plans a complete restoration in the next couple of years and then plans to drive it across country with his wife when he retires.

Jim.

PS Alan, I managed to get a steering column from him as well.