need help on shift tube

[jimmy828]

I ordered a new shift tube for my 69 3speed column shift. I came to conclusion that the PO has repaired the old tube. It has never shifted like it should. Just by the build up on the weld at the top end tells me something is not right. My new shift tube is 1/4" longer than my old tube. New tube is 28-1/2 " and the old tube is 28-1/4 ". Does anyone know the right length of stock tube. I just want some feedback on this before i go to install it. Thanks: Jim

[MAK]

Is it manual or power steering?
There is close to 3" difference between the manual and power steering and there is a slight difference in length between the years. 67-70 manual or power is slightly shorter than the 71-72 manual or power. I didn't realize there was a difference between the years until I saw this technical article: http://fordification.com/tech/powersteering.htm

[jimmy828]

Is it manual or power steering?
There is close to 3" difference between the manual and power steering and there is a slight difference in length between the years. 67-70 manual or power is slightly shorter than the 71-72 manual or power. I didn't realize there was a difference between the years until I saw this technical article: http://fordification.com/tech/powersteering.htm

Thanks for the reply. The part (45-0820) came from LMC and it states that fits manual steering only (that's what i have). I think just by inspecting the older tube that it has been altered due to repair. Their is a weld build up inside the tube where the lever fits. Looks to me the hole that the lever fits into was screwed up and they cut a little off of it and then welded up the hole then drilled a new hole and to do that repair they had to shorten the tube a little .That's what i'm hoping anyway. I hate it when i have to figure out what a PO has done in the past.

[MAK]

I have my old original manual steering tube back at the house but it is from a 72. I'll measure it when I get back Sunday night. The pic I have of my original looks just like the one you have on the bottom of your pic. If you PM me your email address I can send you a photo of mine which I know was original.

[jimmy828]

I have my old original manual steering tube back at the house but it is from a 72. I'll measure it when I get back Sunday night.

Thanks. The part # is the same for 72

[jimmy828]

I have my old original manual steering tube back at the house but it is from a 72. I'll measure it when I get back Sunday night. The pic I have of my original looks just like the one you have on the bottom of your pic. If you PM me your email address I can send you a photo of mine which I know was original.

PM sent