Bradford68

Hello,
Looking for somebody that knows the facts surrounding the capability of the 68 and 69 tilt-a-way option that was offered. I understand that starting in 68 Ford went with collapsible steering columns so the 68 and 67 (tilt) columns are not compatible.

I am contemplating putting in a complete tilt-a-way option in my car and wanted to get the facts before I made my purchase for this rare option gizmo.

Thanks,

Waffles

Talk to WildMustang351 he just bought one for his 70 and might have some info for you.

67 evil eleanor

The tilt aways work two different ways. They have a vacuum motor and an additional push switch in the door above the factory. When the door is open, the vacuum solonoid opens and the vacuum motor pulls a rod and the column tilts up and toward the center of the car. Also the signal lever will adjust the tilt of the column at different pivit points for driver comfort. Also under the fander is a vacuum canister that looks like a coffee can that stores vacuum so that it works when the engine is off. The tilt away columns were common with the Shelbys and also found in some of the standard production models. I think big brother mandated that all columns be collaspable in 67 along with the dual resivor master cylinders. The tilt-away will be a costly option and unless its going back in a Shelby or concours car, I would opt for a Flaming River or I-DID-IT aftermarket. The only big hangup is the wiring and sometimes you will have to install a horn relay. But the install is fairly simple. Hope this helps.

WildMustang351

+1, I know nothing.....

My steering column is still and I say STILL in shipping...I ordered it July 26th....
Didn't know it was going to take that long to get from San Jose CA to Veneta OR (582 miles , 9hrs driving)
I think I could have walked to San Jose and picked it up faster and cheaper!!!

Bradford68

Thanks for the info. I have been watching these tilt-a-ways for sale online. I think I am just going to hold off until I understand what exact parts are required before buying this rather expensive complicated (multiple working parts) part until I have a better understanding what I am getting myself into. I have plenty of other things to worry about with my car.

Thanks!

fastbackford351

+1 on the flaming river or ididit columns. I installed the flaming river rack with the tilt column and so far so good. The wiring was straight up simple. I clipped the connector off of the old column and spliced it onto the flaming river setup.

Horn doesn't work so I just keep my window rolled down so I can scream at the idiots in my way.

85lebaront2

A couple of items, I don't think the collapsable columns started in Fords until 68, the 67s had the huge horn "button" in the center of a deeply dished wheel. The "swing away" column had a pivot and u-joint under the dash to allow it to swing so only the upper section moved. There is a portion of the dash trim around the column that is way different to allow for the swing, part of it is attached to the column and moves with it. I know the Shelbys used them and a lot of Cougars had them too. Thunderbirds had them also, but I don't know if it will fit a Mustang.

Bradford68

Thanks for all of your input!

rmodel65

if you want the tilt away wheel from 68-70 or when ever they were used you will need a 68-70 steering box too because of the collapsible shaft