The steering column is the critical link between you and your vehicle’s direction. Choosing the right one, especially for a classic or custom build, is paramount for both safety and driving enjoyment. Appleton-style columns are a popular choice for many automotive projects, offering a blend of reliability and classic design. This roundup will help you navigate the key options available, from complete columns to essential mounting hardware.
Selecting a column involves more than just fitment; you must consider tilt functionality, shift mechanism, ignition placement, and compatibility with your steering wheel. Whether you’re restoring a vintage Jeep or building a hot rod from the ground up, understanding the features and benefits of each product will ensure you make an informed decision for a smooth and secure driving experience.
Top Appleton-Style Steering Columns and Accessories
- Pateyney 32″ Auto Column Shift Tilt Steering Column
- XTPTFABS Billet 2″ Universal Steering Column Keyed No Drop Mount
- Ciuouient S83022A 2” Lower Steering Column Mount
- ND 32″ Auto Column Shift Tilt Steering Column
- BST BSSP Universal 32″ GM Steering Column Tilt Auto
- Steering Column Rack Kit With Tilt Column
- Appleton Steering Column Part Number 100004
- Appleton Steering Column Part Number 100007
Pateyney 32″ Auto Column Shift Tilt Steering Column with Key & Wheel Adapter Black
This 32-inch black steering column from Pateyney is a comprehensive solution for many auto restoration projects. It combines several essential features into one ready-to-install unit, including a column-mounted ignition key and a billet shifter arm for automatic transmissions. The inclusion of a tilt function allows for personalized driving comfort and easier vehicle entry and exit.
Installation is simplified as the turn signal switch comes pre-wired, saving you time and effort during the build process. The package also includes a wheel adapter, making it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket steering wheels. This column is designed for builders seeking a classic look with modern convenience and reliability.
XTPTFABS Billet 2″ Universal Steering Column Keyed No Drop Mount
Securing your steering column properly is crucial, and the XTPTFABS mount offers a robust and versatile solution. Its unique hinged design allows it to fit the most common 2-inch diameter aftermarket columns from popular brands like Ididit and Flaming River. This universal compatibility makes it an excellent choice for a wide array of custom car and truck projects.
Constructed from high-quality aluminum alloy, this mount is both lightweight and exceptionally strong. The anodized black finish provides superior corrosion resistance and enhances the product’s wear resistance, ensuring a long service life. This keyed no-drop mount is engineered for a secure fit that minimizes play and vibration for precise steering feel.
Ciuouient S83022A 2” Lower Steering Column Mount
The Ciuouient S83022A is a swivel lower steering column mount designed for compatibility with standard 2-inch diameter columns. Its primary function is to provide a stable and adjustable connection point between the column and the vehicle’s firewall or bracket. This component is vital for achieving the correct steering angle and ensuring a solid mount.
With an assembled height of 2 inches and an overall length of 5-7/8 inches, this mount offers a compact yet effective solution. The design includes multiple mounting surfaces, each measuring 1″ x 2″, providing flexibility during installation. This mount is a practical and necessary hardware piece for completing a professional-grade steering column installation.
ND 32″ Auto Column Shift Tilt Steering Column with Key & Wheel Adapter Chrome
For those seeking a bright, polished look, the ND 32-inch column offers the same great features as its black counterpart but in a striking chrome finish. This column includes a billet shifter arm, tilt mechanism, and a column-mounted ignition with a key. The chrome plating adds a classic, show-quality appearance that is perfect for street rods and custom classics.
Like other full-column options, it comes with a prewired turn signal switch, which significantly reduces installation complexity. The inclusion of a wheel adapter ensures you can fit your preferred steering wheel. This column is an ideal choice if your build demands both functionality and a high-gloss aesthetic.
BST BSSP Universal 32″ GM Steering Column Tilt Auto Automatic No Key Hot Rod Columns
The BST BSSP column is a universal 32-inch automatic column finished in black coating. It is designed with a classic GM-style profile, making it a popular choice for hot rod and custom car builders. This column features a tilt mechanism and comes with a 9-hole bolt pattern adapter for steering wheel attachment, along with a shift indicator.
It is important to note that this particular model does not include a keyed ignition on the column, which may be preferable for builds using a separate ignition switch on the dashboard. The package is comprehensive, including the turn signal switch, hazard switch, and gear indicator. This is a solid option for a straightforward, functional steering column.
Steering Column Rack Kit With Tilt Column
This is a specialized kit designed specifically for a range of classic Jeep models, including the 1987-1995 YJ Wrangler and 1974-1983 CJ-5. It is more than just a column; it’s a complete rack kit that includes all necessary components for replacing the steering column assembly in these iconic 4×4 vehicles.
The inclusion of the tilt column feature adds a layer of comfort and adjustability to the driving experience. This kit is an exact replacement part, ensuring proper fit and function for Jeep owners looking to restore or repair their vehicle’s steering system. It takes the guesswork out of sourcing individual parts for a Jeep steering column replacement.
Appleton Steering Column Part Number 100004
This entry refers to a specific Appleton steering column identified by part number 100004. Appleton is a recognized name in the industry, often associated with OEM-style replacements and components known for their quality and direct fitment.
When searching for this specific part number, you are likely looking for an exact replacement for a particular vehicle application. Using a genuine or high-quality equivalent Appleton part ensures compatibility and reliability, which is essential for maintaining the original steering geometry and safety standards of your vehicle.
Appleton Steering Column Part Number 100007
Similar to the previous entry, this product is an Appleton steering column with the distinct part number 100007. This part number corresponds to a specific column design intended for certain vehicle models and years.
Selecting a column by its official part number is the most accurate way to find a correct replacement. This approach is highly recommended for restorations or repairs where maintaining original specifications is important. Always verify that the part number matches your vehicle’s requirements before making a purchase.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in an Appleton Steering Column
When I need to replace or upgrade a steering column, especially for a heavy-duty vehicle or industrial application, getting the right one is non-negotiable. It’s the direct link between me and the vehicle’s direction, so safety and reliability are my top priorities. Appleton is a name I’ve come to trust in this space, but even within their product line, there are key factors I always consider to make the best choice for my specific situation. This guide walks through what I look for when evaluating the 8 best Appleton steering column reviews and key considerations.
First and foremost, I check the compatibility and application. Not all steering columns are created equal. I need to know the exact make, model, and year of my vehicle or equipment. For industrial machinery, the specific model number is crucial. I also consider the type of steering system—is it hydraulic, manual, or power-assisted? Installing an incompatible column is a waste of time and money and can be downright dangerous. I always double-check the manufacturer’s specifications against my vehicle’s requirements.
Next, I focus on the construction and durability. These components take a beating. I look for columns made from high-strength steel with robust mounting brackets. The finish is also important; a corrosion-resistant powder coating can be a lifesaver for equipment that operates in harsh environments or is exposed to chemicals and weather. The internal components, like the bearing system, should be designed for a long service life with minimal maintenance. A wobbly or loose steering column is a problem I don’t want to have.
Another major point is the features and adjustability. Does the column offer a tilt function? Tilt steering can make a huge difference in operator comfort, especially for those who share the vehicle or drive for long shifts. I also look at the design of the shaft connection—is it a simple keyway, a splined shaft, or a specific coupling? Ensuring the new column has the correct interface for my existing steering wheel and linkage is a step I never skip. Some models may also offer integrated mounting for controls like turn signals or transmission shifters.
Finally, I think about safety certifications and ease of installation. I prefer components that meet or exceed industry safety standards. A steering column failure is not an option. While I’m comfortable with some mechanical work, I assess whether the installation is a straightforward bolt-on affair or if it requires custom fabrication or special tools. Reading reviews from other users who have installed the same model on a similar vehicle gives me invaluable real-world insight into any potential hiccups.
FAQ
What vehicles or equipment are Appleton steering columns used for?
Appleton steering columns are primarily found in heavy-duty and specialized vehicles. You’ll commonly see them in commercial trucks, school buses, construction equipment like loaders and graders, agricultural tractors, and various types of industrial machinery. They are engineered for applications where standard automotive columns might not provide the necessary durability or specific mounting requirements.
How difficult is it to install an Appleton steering column myself?
The difficulty of installation really depends on your mechanical skill level and the specific vehicle. Some replacements are relatively straightforward bolt-on procedures if you’re swapping a like-for-like column. However, if the installation requires modifying the dash, adapting wiring for integrated controls, or customizing the shaft length, it can become complex. I always recommend having the vehicle’s service manual on hand and, if you’re unsure, consulting with a professional mechanic. Safety is paramount when working on steering systems.
Are there different shaft sizes and connection types?
Yes, this is a critical detail. Appleton steering columns come with various shaft diameters and connection types to match different steering systems. Common types include keyed shafts (with a woodruff key), splined shafts (with a specific number of splines), and even hexagonal shafts. It’s essential to know the exact specifications of your old column or your vehicle’s steering box to order the correct replacement. Measuring the old part carefully before ordering is a best practice I always follow.
Do Appleton columns come with a warranty?
Appleton typically stands behind its products with a warranty, but the specific terms and duration can vary depending on the product line and the distributor you purchase from. It’s always a good idea to check the warranty information for the specific part number you are considering. A strong warranty can give you peace of mind, especially for a critical safety component like a steering column. When reviewing the 8 best Appleton steering column reviews and key considerations, the warranty offered is a point I always check.
Can I use an Appleton column to replace a column from another brand?
While it is sometimes possible, it’s not a simple direct swap in many cases. The mounting bracket pattern, overall column length, shaft connection type, and diameter all need to match up perfectly. Using a column from a different brand often requires fabrication of custom adapter plates or modifications to the vehicle, which I generally don’t recommend unless you have significant experience. For a reliable and safe fit, sticking with an Appleton replacement designed for your specific application is the best path.