Body lift causes steering column relocation

I had a problem with something hitting the floor when I went over a good size bump. I was thinking it was the floor hitting the transmission. I've always had clearance issues so I thought. Why not get a body lift. I went with 1 1/14 body mounts. The installation was easy. I even put double rubber mounts on the front half of the body. (Extra frame/body flex in that location.)



Then I found a problem. Big problem. The steering column is now wedged between the body and the exhaust manifold. I can't steer the Jeep.

So the real work begins.





Lowered the column.



Extra floor clearance around the transmission.



Fit testing the new smaller u-joint.



Now I removed the column to weld in new metal.

 

In any system a change in one place usually necessitates adjustments in other areas. I did a very mild body lift (+3/8") on my CJ2A and had to recut the pedal holes in the floor board and do some tweaks to the brakes.

 

Touch up painting day. I did the base of the column and a few spots on the body.

 

Steering column is in along with the steering rods. I just need to cover the transmission and mount the fender and 'll be done.