Willys Jeep Saginaw Steering Conversion!

Willys Jeep Saginaw steering conversion! In this video I go through the full step by step process of converting my Willys CJ3B stock Ross steering to a more modern Saginaw steering setup. This is an excellent upgrade for any old Willys Jeep!
Included is a list of parts used in this video:
30” Deepmotor Tilt Steering Column
www.ebay.com/itm/401716419805
3/4” DD Steering Shaft Support
www.ebay.com/itm/333004787167
7/16 Bushings
www.ebay.com/itm/164256166047
3/4” DD to 3/4” DD U Joint
www.ebay.com/itm/392480417415
1” DD to 3/4” DD U joint
www.ebay.com/itm/331681836423
Colin Mount Bracket
2 Inch Steering Column Mount Bracket www.amazon.com/dp/B01N9VQFTQ/...
1971-1987 Jeep CJ steering box
Grant 338 Classic Steering Wheel
Grant 338 Classic Steering Wheel www.amazon.com/dp/B000CMF3US/...
Grant 3196 Installation Kit
Grant 3196 Installation Kit www.amazon.com/dp/B000CMJ1RY/...
3/4” Heim Joint Kit
www.barnes4wd.com/34-Inch-Hei...

[@bill3641]

This is fun to watch. In the early 70's we did a bunch of these with friends in the Jeep club. We bought the steering boves from a local chevy dealer for $7.50 each. They were take offs when the deal installed power units. Good content.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

That’s crazy!

[@xfactorautomotive1496]

Nice work!! Thanks for the ideas. Your step by step is great. On my '67 dauntless CJ I added the tilt column but decided on the Astro van PS conversion mounting the box just behind the radiator. It worked out awesome and it's hard to tell it's not factory with the hood closed. The lack of the boomerang under the radiator is a give away for a hard core Jeep guy, I guess. I like that it's farther back on a boxed section of the frame and has no flex on the frame horns up front. Anyway, keep the vids coming!!

[@SevenBarSalvage]

That’s awesome! I might upgrade to power steering one day. Thank you for watching!

[@xfactorautomotive1496]

I also got rid of my Ross crap box, but I went the Astro van PS box route mounted behind the front cross member with a GM tilt column. What I wanted to mention is...the late 80's-early 90's little Cherokees have the same steering wheel spline as the GM column, have some very stylish wheels plus they say Jeep on the horn button! It looks really appropriate in an old CJ. Thought I'd mention it cuz it seems you like updated stock stuff over aftermarket.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Oh man that’s good to know… I’m pretty sure I have one I might swap it out! Thanks!

[@xmo552]

@@SevenBarSalvage Those are called Saginaw steering columns (I've been told). But, yeah XJ, MJ, and any/all GM vehicles from 1978 to 2000ish. That's anything not FWD. Most parts are interchangeable. I once added a telescopic function off a early 90s Fleetwood into my 78 Cutlass. GM interchangeability is awesome.

[@cam0030]

I have been needing these videos in my life. Great work. Subscribed !!

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Welcome to the channel! Thank you!!

[@bruceklassen8261]

Really cool how you put all this together, it’s coming together nicely

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Thank you!

[@dgiorgi1725]

Yeah I enjoyed it. For a young guy you really have it together. OK , nownyou need a Plasm cutter, a milling machine and a Lathe. When I built Streetrods, oh about a 100 years ago, I used to make the shafts that were splined and Double D out of Polished Stainless. The use of one universal is the way to go to eliminate road vibrations in fact they sell a "U" Joint for that but you will hardly feel a difference. Nice work, YOU ARE THE MAN.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

That’s awesome! Really appreciate it!

[@TheOldaz1]

Nice job, especially like the tilt column.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Thank you! If you’re gonna replace the column you’ve gotta go tilt!

[@Coastriderscotland]

Great work your doing!, roll on the next instalment!

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Thank you!

[@rogermontee8264]

Very nice built, you did a fantastic job.I also have a saginaw set up in my Willys jeep with a stainless steering column,mine is power steering. I have a 327 chevy with a 3 speed ford top loader transmission adapted to my dana 18 transfer case. My Willys jeep is a 1946 C J 2a mounted on a 1955 C J 5 frame with the 55 running gear. Dana 44 trac lock unit in the rear with a full floater axel. Dana 25 with disc brakes and a power trac unit. Hope to have disc brakes in the rear soon.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Thank you! Wow sounds like a great Jeep with good parts! Thank you for watching!

[@bhill671]

Wow -- keep up the good work (restoration AND publishing vids) I rarely subscribe and I am subscribing to yours for sure! Great explanations, sense of humor LOL, and everything you do makes sense. I think Deepmotor sold out of the columns due to your recent publish! Now that I'm a loyal subscriber . . you're going to hear all about my project LOL. My 67 CJ5 has the same factory Dr Seuss steering with too many connections to ever functionally control a 33 inch tire. This info is just what I need - Thank You again for publishing!

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Welcome to the channel! I really appreciate all the good feedback! Haha you could be right! Sounds like a great project this would be the perfect upgrade for it!

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Welcome to the channel! I really appreciate all the good feedback! Haha you could be right! Sounds like a great project this would be the perfect upgrade for it!

[@amx19733]

Another Awesome Willy’s video!!!!

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Thank you!

[@allenhafner7795]

When we put the Saginaw steering box on we used a half inch plate drilled and tapped for the steering box, then properly weld plate to frame.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

There’s several variations to this conversion. I spent weeks researching old build threads before going this route. Thank you for watching!

[@jeepdoctv]

Super nice setup!!!

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Thank you sir!

[@robertstone96]

Excellent video! Thanks for the info.✅

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Thank you I appreciate it!

[@michaeljames9671]

Don't forget the bump stops if you are using them.. they will smash the hard lines between top of axle and bump stop. Working a 3b now and the front hard lines are smashed flat.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

I almost made that mistake, it’s been corrected. Easy mistake to make! Good eye thank you for the comment!

[@kamsden13]

Awesome job.👍

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Thank you!

[@johnkreiner7842]

Doing the same thing to my 57' right now. Looks like we ordered the same column as well.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Awesome! I think for the money it seems pretty high quality

[@robertsnyder5149]

Great instructional!

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Really appreciate it!

[@r.j.schubert9222]

Great video

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Thank you!

[@melvis2017]

Thanks for the great job very simple and easy appreciations 🇩🇰🙏👍👌

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Glad to hear it thank you for watching!

[@kyleh3615]

Ling live the Ross T12!

[@SevenBarSalvage]

😂

[@calegoethals4575]

HOTTT DOGGG. Thanks for the video bud.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Haha thanks buddy!

[@ezequieldiaz1950]

MUY BUEN TRABAJO SALUDOS DESDE ARGENTINA !!!!

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Thank you!

[@MrJeep75]

Awesome

[@fricknjeep]

hi there good show john

[@randy-mw5dq]

Hey can you give us a pic of you sitting in the driver seat so we can see how the seating with the steering wheel in.

[@charlesperkins941]

No, No No! - slag splatter on the beautiful new stainless steering column? I've done worse, guess that's why I cringed. (I'm on my eleventh flatty). Love your videos! Subscribed

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Welcome to the channel! Fortunately I avoided any splatter on the column haha

[@stephenhall7483]

This is really nice work. thanks for the video, and the great explanations. BTW; what size hole saw did you use to cut the cross member, and what diameter pipe did you cut and bend to fit? Thanks!

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Thank you! I started out with a 2 inch but I opened it up more closer to 2.5-3. Pipe was 2 inch I think. It all depends on what joint you use and where it lands how much clearance you’ll need. Thank you for watching!

[@jeffreid9987]

I looked but didn’t see the universal steering column part number, can you share the number. Looks great enjoy your videos

[@SevenBarSalvage]

www.ebay.com/itm/1-dd-to-3-4-dd-steering-universal-joint-u-joint-new-/331681836423?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l49286&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0 www.ebay.com/itm/1-Pcs-New-Single-Universal-Steering-Black-U-Joint-Shaft-3-4-Dd-X-3-4-Inch-Dd-/392480417415?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&_trksid=p2349624.m2548.l6249&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0 Top is 1” DD to 3/4” DD Bottom is 3/4” DD to 3/4” DD Thank you for watching!

[@PaulA-yh7kr]

I found a steering gear from a CJ Scrambler, it is a little shorter will that work. Thank you Paul

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Awesome!

[@frederickdominguez4829]

Hey great work. Where can I get those weld in plugs for the tie rods / draglink. Thanks again

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Thank you! Barnes 4WD www.barnes4wd.com/34-Inch-Heim-Steering-Kit-No-Tubing-_p_760.html

[@efowfs]

Love your videos. I don’t have an old Willy but love them. I’m planning on installing this column on my ‘71 Jeepster Commando. It already has a saginaw. Do you think I’d need to add the support for the single u joint or did you just do that because you had two u joints?

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Thank you! A single support would be fine with a single u joint! Great upgrade! Love the commandos!

[@jeffchillemi8464]

Great video Could you tell me what year the right side double hole knuckle. I am having trouble finding one with 4 bolt king pins

[@SevenBarSalvage]

73 is when Jeep went to open knuckle axles I believe so any Dana front axle on a j truck or Wagoneer should have the correct knuckle! The 25/27/44 are interchange! Hope this helps!

[@mohamedareekat2113]

very nice work bro..😍😍,this column for electrical ?no nead for hydrolic pumb ?

[@SevenBarSalvage]

I decided to keep it manual for now, might switch to power steering down the road!

[@we773]

What Tie rod tube and drag link lengths did you finally come up with. I’m looking at doing the same type of conversation. Thanks

[@SevenBarSalvage]

I’ll try and get you some measurements!

[@patboyle7174]

I assuming you upgraded you peddle assemble and would like to see how you hooked up your peddles and clutch linkage

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Peddle upgrade is coming. Ditching the floor peddles for swing peddles!

[@EDDIEVASQUEZ-qv6jm]

i did mine in 1972!!!

[@SevenBarSalvage]

That’s awesome!

[@randy-mw5dq]

I installed a after market steering wheel for the cj5 and when sit in the driver's seat its like the wheel is almost in my chest. Would going back to original seats give me more room 🤔.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

The original column/steering wheel/seat combo doesn’t leave much room. I’ll be posting a video on the seat installation in the next few weeks. It will show everything I’m doing to create more room so I can actually fit in the Jeep haha

[@dharmindersingh6722]

Hi! Great video , can I use Saginaw steering box in RHD drive mahindra willys jeep (England)?thanks

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Probably have to find a right hand box but otherwise should be the same!

[@davevanatta1965]

i know before you mention for passenger side knockle what makes and yrs that hold double hole if ya could please lmk would appreciate it . Ty

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Full sized Jeeps like wagoneers and trucks had them until around 74 I think and international scouts also used them. The knuckles off a 25, 27, or 44 closed knuckle all interchange. I see them pop up on eBay sometimes or check out vintage jeeper.com he had some for sale the other day! Hope this helps!

[@stevebouffard8637]

With the hole in the cross member did you have clearance issues with the radiator? I have a radiator support bracket directly on the other side.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Interesting… That’s something I’ll need to verify. I’ve not heard of it being an issue! Thanks!

[@johnkreiner7842]

Did you column have some slop at the bottom? I got the exact same one was just curious before I complained to deepmotor.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

No everything seemed solid on mine. Sorry to hear that!

[@user-dq1gg5yl9g]

Where did you get that floor bracket for the column?? I'm putting the same one in my Jeep and this conversion definitely needed to be done.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

There should be an Amazon link in the description under the video! If it doesn’t work email me at [e-mail] and I’ll forward it to you!

[@user-yo9st6yb7y]

Any suggestions as to where I might be able to acquire a two hole knuckle?

[@SevenBarSalvage]

J trucks and wagoneers had them. I think the scout stuff might work too. Keep a watch on eBay they pop up from time to time!

[@doylehenson2110]

Where do I find the flat fender aficionado publication? I have a 1948 cj2a with many questions.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

flatfendering.com You can follow them on Instagram for updates and new issue releases!

[@baylymiley]

I just bought a CJ3b with this already done, is the turning radius just terrible on these old gals? and can you adjust some of the slack out of these steering boxes like 99 etc F250

[@SevenBarSalvage]

The closer knuckles don’t turn as tight as the later open knuckle axles. Should be a jam nut and screw to take slop out of the box. Thank you!

[@ifreerideus]

What is powering the streeing box? Did you add a pump on the motor? Thanks for your video and input

[@SevenBarSalvage]

I just used a manual steering box for now. I have seen people ad power steering to these engines though. Maybe I’ll do a video on it in the future. Thank you for watching!

[@ifreerideus]

no problem and thanks for getting back to me@@SevenBarSalvage

[@fitz3540]

I've got myself an M38A1 with a Saginaw swap done by a previous owner, but I'm pretty sure it had the same steering setup as yours when stock. For some reason, there is almost ZERO clearance between my tie-rod and my leaf spring on the passenger side. Any idea what went wrong with their build, and how I could fix it?

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Stock tie rods go under the knuckle. I think some people buy a tapered reamed and taper the top of the knuckle to flip the tie rod and give you more clearance. Because I drilled me knuckles out and used the heim joints I could bolt mine on top. Hope this helps!

[@fitz3540]

@@SevenBarSalvage Absolutely! Thanks

[@ShnitzlHaus]

do you like the steering column? this looks like a good upgrade for my 2a and easier to get in out.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

For the price you can’t beat it! That’s the whole reason I went with a tilt column and 14 inch steering wheel I’m a big guy and I want this to be as comfortable as I can make it!

[@ShnitzlHaus]

@@SevenBarSalvage what length Column did you order? Also steering wheel. I might jump at this. Having the signals in already is great.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

It’s a 30” column and 14” grant steering wheel, I have all the part numbers and links in the description. Let me know if you need anything else!

[@jigglem]

Would like to see how you do the wiring for blinkers with that column.

[@ShnitzlHaus]

@@SevenBarSalvage oops I probably did look at that. Any benefit to go with the 33”

[@SidDeanDFWHomeandRanch]

What seats are you using? Miy driver is trashed and passenger was gone when I got the jeep

[@SevenBarSalvage]

These came out of a 3rd gen bronco! I think they are slightly bigger than stock low back buckets.

[@dgiorgi1725]

Hi, I want to add this box to my 50 Willys Pickup. I am thinking power steering or you think the box will be enough without power. Anything will be an improvement to the original Ross. Also you mentioned a single hole knuckle so how would you achieve this? Sandwich the knuckle between top and bottom Heim Joints? Thanks in advance.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

You’d be surprised how well the manual steering boxes work, but power is always nice! There’s a tie rod with a hole made into it for your drag link. It’s probably more simple than what I did and the parts are easier to find!

[@dgiorgi1725]

@@SevenBarSalvage Yes there is a tie rod sold by Advanced Adapters called a "Y" tie rod that allows the use of a tie rod to the Pitman arm. I just don't want to do too much welding other than mounting the box itself. But I supposed nothing ventured nothing gained. Thanks for the advice I m thinking with the 33 inch tires perhaps I would need power but then again. I had a Scrambler with 35 and a manual box that worked fine.. You channel ROCKS. Thanks for taking the time to post these videos.

[@coltonlefever4100]

How many hours did you have in it just labor not research. Thanks!

[@SevenBarSalvage]

If you had all the parts you could probably knock it out in a Saturday, 8-10 hours. Thanks!

[@mikepyatt5424]

What kind of paint and primer did you use?

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Rustoleum 2X paint and primer… pretty dang good stuff!

[@johnnyabercrombie5621]

Did you say you didn’t end up using the 3/4x 3/4 u joint?

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Yes, I didn’t use the double joint coming off the column though I used a single joint.

[@chuckvonbeck5567]

What length of column did you select?

[@SevenBarSalvage]

The 30” version

[@alexandertabay2718]

what is the part number for that steering wheel?

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Grant 338 Classic Steering Wheel www.amazon.com/dp/B000CMF3US?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

[@tommysalazar5074]

I amwanting to put a GM tilt steering column in a 1950 Willys cj3a. I went to our local parts store and I found the steering box for a 1977 cj5. they could not find a steering shaft. where could I find one? I am trying to follow your conversion that I found on KZbin. Also, is "Saginaw" simply just a side mount steering box??

[@SevenBarSalvage]

The coupler and the shaft should by reproduction through omix ada. Some people grind down the shaft going into the factor steering box and just use double D u joints. That might be more cost effective and universal. Hope this helps!

[@tommysalazar5074]

@@SevenBarSalvage Thank you so much! Just got in my Saginaw steering box off of a 1977 CJ5. are you talking about shaft / DOM tubing, or is it a solid steel shaft? it looks like solid steel in your video, right? Also, could you send me part numbers that you used in your video. I'm trying to follow your video to the tee. Thank you in advance for your help!

[@we773]

Tommy, It’s solid 3/4” round steel shaft. I used the same on the Saginaw conversation on my ‘52 M38. I also used the steering column out of the same cj5. Just ground flats on either side works great.

[@davevanatta1965]

u wouldnt happen to have steering box number and make by chance please ?

[@SevenBarSalvage]

It’s a Saginaw box but unfortunately I don’t have specific part numbers. I know they made different ratios.

[@iamhuckfinn]

What issue of the flafendering aficionado was this article in? I’ve reached out to them and they don’t know.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Shoot me an email [e-mail] I’ll dig the issue out!

[@iamhuckfinn]

Sent

[@chincha805]

are you doing power steering?

[@SevenBarSalvage]

The internet was kind of split on if a willys jeep needs power steering and I already had the manual boxes so I went with the manual. But with this system adapting a power steering setup should be easy so it could be a possible future upgrade!

[@jimyerby8644]

Great job buddy. I have a 1941 Flatfender Willys that I have been restoring from the frame up sense 1993. L- 134 flat head completley rebuilt. I am trying to do the same steering conversion. Watching your video is a great help, but my hearing & your southern accent is had to hear clearly. What is the name of the after market steering column & name of the supplier ? A web site would help in order to place order. Any help you can give is great. Could you send me a direct contact info ?

[@SevenBarSalvage]

Great project! Shoot me an email to [e-mail] and I’ll give you a complete list. Thanks!

[@jimyerby8644]

@@SevenBarSalvage Just sent you an email for complete list of parts & web sites to order. My project has been on hold for several yrs. & I am 73 yrs. old & want to finesh it before I get to dam old ! .... Jim Yerby

[@SevenBarSalvage]

I don’t see your email?

[@JUAREZjura]

Moro no Brasil e gostaria que me fornecer a relação das peças para adquirir está coluna completa

[@Mocking69]

凄いです♪

[@josealonsogonzalez5470]

👌👍🇨🇴

[@allenhafner7795]

Best thing to use that four cylinder for is a boat anchor. Swap in the old 225 Buick v6 then you have plenty of power and efficiency. Then dig up the old warn overdrive unit. Trust me completely different Jeep!

[@SevenBarSalvage]

I’d love to find a good 225, all the ones I come across are either too far away or worn out

[@spymaine89]

cant you find an original starring wheel . that piece of shit modern wheel , shame on you . thats my favorite jeep . . you can make anything fit anything.

[@SevenBarSalvage]

The 14 inch steering wheel with the tilt is what’s gonna help me fit in this thing! I admire a purist though nothing wrong with stock! Thank you for watching!

[@SevenBarSalvage]

The 14 inch steering wheel with the tilt is what’s gonna help me fit in this thing! I admire a purist though nothing wrong with stock! Thank you for watching!

[@we773]

Could you give some dimensions on your tie rod and drag link. ie. Final length from side to side. Maybe Would be help for a starting point for some of us in the middle of this same process. Thanks looks great, love the wood bed in the back. 👍