Steering Parts for 1947-55 Chevy GMC 3100 1st Series Trucks
Bring the steering system together with parts for 1947-55 Chevy and GMC 3100 First Series trucks. Shop power steering conversion components, steering gear boxes, brackets, shafts, U-joints, rag joints, couplers, and support bearings for restoring or changing the steering configuration.
Steering Conversion and Connection Parts for 1947-55 3100 Trucks
On an early 3100, the steering gearbox and steering column are only the two endpoints. Everything between them has to create a usable mechanical connection, which is why shafts, U-joints, couplers, support bearings, and conversion brackets occupy so much of this collection.
A power steering conversion changes one endpoint entirely. POL’s 1947-59 conversion system, separate gearbox, and dedicated mounting brackets provide different ways to move away from the original steering arrangement without forcing every truck into the same level of modification.
The shaft between the column and gearbox can then be built around the space available. 3/4-inch DD intermediate shafts in different lengths, needle-bearing U-joints, and support bearings allow the connection to change direction or span a longer distance when the new steering box no longer lines up like the factory setup.
Rag joints and slip couplers solve the final connection in several different ways, from replacement coupling discs to Borgeson and power/manual gearbox configurations. The collection is therefore less about one steering conversion and more about creating the mechanical link between an early truck’s column and whatever steering gear is now being used.
FAQ
How do I choose steering parts for my 1947-55 Chevy or GMC 3100 truck?
First determine whether the truck still has its original steering arrangement or has already been modified. Then identify the steering gearbox, column connection, intermediate shaft, couplers, and mounting points. If you are planning power steering, decide whether you need the complete conversion or only individual parts such as the gearbox, brackets, shafts, or joints.
Can I convert a 1947-55 Chevy or GMC 3100 to power steering?
Yes. POL lists a 1947-59 Chevy and GMC truck power steering conversion, which covers the 1947-55 First Series trucks in this collection. A separate power steering conversion gearbox and 1947-59 conversion bracket kit are also available for buyers assembling the system from individual components.
Can I buy the power steering conversion gearbox separately?
Yes. The collection includes a 1947-87 Chevy/GMC truck power steering conversion gearbox as a separate product. This can be useful when the truck already has some of the other conversion components. Check the gearbox configuration and the steering connections already on the truck before ordering.
How do I choose the correct steering shaft and U-joints?
Identify the connection at both ends and measure the distance the shaft needs to cover. The collection includes 3/4-inch DD intermediate shafts in 18- and 36-inch lengths, individual needle-bearing U-joints, and a U-joint and intermediate-shaft kit. Check shaft profile, spline specifications, operating angles, and clearance around nearby components.
What is the difference between a rag joint, U-joint, and steering coupler?
These components provide different ways of connecting sections of the steering system. Rag joints are commonly used at steering gearbox connections, while U-joints can accommodate angles between shafts. Couplers and slip-shaft components provide additional connection options depending on the shafts and steering gear being used. The correct choice depends on the exact configuration of the truck.
When is a steering shaft support bearing needed?
A support bearing can help locate and support an intermediate steering shaft where the installation requires additional shaft support. POL carries both an individual steering shaft support bearing and a support bearing kit. Whether one is required depends on shaft length, routing, U-joint placement, and the overall steering configuration.
What should I check before ordering parts for a modified Chevy 3100 steering system?
Inspect what is physically installed rather than relying only on the truck's original specifications. Confirm the steering box, column output, shaft diameter and profile, splines, couplers, U-joints, bracket arrangement, shaft length, and available clearance. If the truck has already received a power steering conversion, identify which conversion system and components were used before replacing individual parts.