Which steering column??

[garthom]

I have 3 steering columns,69,70,72, I think. Would an earlier column like mid 60s look better & fit? since I haven't seen any buggies or beetles around lately here in the land of corn & beans, I have nothing to compare. Any pics of columns in buggies? Thanks, Gary

[90volts]

stock '73 with all the controls still on the column and locking ignition. only thing i did was cut down the turn signal switch a few inches so i didn't catch on it getting in all the time.

[Don Giovanoni]

I have used 69 bug columns twice now. Advantages: Key and high beam switch is on the column - no need to mount the key on the dash and a switch on the firewall for the high beam. Collapsable steering column is probably safer. Disadvantage: The additonal diameter of the collapsable steering column is a pain to get through the dash and firewall. I recommend the 69.

[Tom-Kathleen]

I would go with the 72 (or up). It has the windshield wiper controls on it as well as the high low beam for headlights. It is one less thing that you have to find a mounting point for on the car. Plus, it has the saftey feature of a collapsible section. Tom

[manxdavid]

Here's pics of the '66/'67 type column I'm just about to install in my new Manx (please excuse the mess!!!). Eartier columns are the same except that they don't have the small headlight dimmer switch built-in behing the turn signal switch... I like this column as it's simple and uncluttered. I usually use a foot dimmer switch to keep the wiring easier, and I prefer a dash mounted ignition switch. Each to thier own though of course!!!

[newmanx59]

I agree with David. I like the simplicity of the early steering column. I went one step further and ran the turn signal switch wiring inside the steering column, to make it look even cleaner.

[garthom]

Jerry, how did you install the wires inside the column so they are out of the way of the steering shaft? Any pics?

[newmanx59]

I was waiting for someone to ask. Cut the top and bottom off a couple 20oz plastic Pepsi bottles, roll it up and stick it in the steering column. The plastic will expand to hold the wiring tight against the outside of the column, and away from the steering shaft.