TheSamba.com :: View topic

Wed Oct 16, 2013 2:36 pm

NEWBIE ALERT

Can I cut a section out of a solid column, then add two knuckle joints and then fill the gap with an appropriate length solid rod?

Of course:

Proper length
Cross pinned knuckle/rod joint
Welded as appropriate

Thanks in advance,

Oh, forgot to add 1962.

Wed Oct 16, 2013 2:56 pm

No . . . not a good idea. (two joints in a single shaft would require a support bearing and the shaft would not be collapsible with the sections running inline with each other).

I have considered trying to use just the shaft from a later Beetle inside my early column though, but I do not know what modifications it would require.

Wed Oct 16, 2013 4:09 pm

As 57BLITZ say's, it would not be possible since the stock column only has one bearing at the top.

It would not be practical either because the path from wheel to steering box is straight. For a double u-joint column to collapse under impact, the shaft would need to angle down so the joints were not in the same plain.

An easier way is to fit a collapsible column shaft from a '68-. This typically only requires the fuel tank be spaced up a few mm's or dent the tank in a small area where the column passes under it for clearance.

Wed Oct 16, 2013 5:20 pm

'57

I understand your point. However would it apply if the direction of force in a collision was other than straight on.

The driver moving forward would be straight on, but the shaft is angled downwards in relation to the force of impact with MV or FO.

Would the knuckle joints not then defect away from the straight line?

AGREE - bearing would likely have to added. Where?

'61

Is the '68 one that has a squirrel cage near the steering box?

If yes, how much distance does the collapse accommodate?

Would later models work as well?

Wed Oct 16, 2013 8:15 pm

Found this pic for reference by putting 68 steering column in The Samba Gallery search (all credits go to Cage44) ...

How much does it collapse? I have no idea and would be guessing if I said.

As far as year spread I can't be sure enough to answer with 100% accuracy but would think you're safe with '68-'71.

As far as adapting one, this pic also shows that because of loose production tolerances, the shafts are not always centered well in the tube. As it rotates if it's bent even a little you can see where it might hit the early fuel tank at the top where it's closest.

Wed Oct 16, 2013 10:01 pm

61SNRF wrote: Found this pic for reference by putting 68 steering column in The Samba Gallery search (all credits go to Cage44) ... Thanks for posting the pic!

Check out this vid . . . http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n1PczDtRIPI This guy has put PLENTY of thought in designing the steering system for his baja bug. . . THREE TIMES! He discusses the suport bearing and some other things to consider (like loosing the stock horn button function)