Ecocat Steering Column Installation - Steered in the Right Direction

The Flaming River steering shaft is designed to collapse in case of an accident. These unique steering shafts are highly recommended for kit car applications. The slip shaft kit includes a 36-inch DD shaft (which can be cut to size) and a protective bellows. The system allows for approximately 3 inches of movement, eliminating binding caused by chassis flex. The result is a smooth, responsive steering system.

Though high-quality steering columns are often associated with street rods, a stronger case can be made for use in kit cars. Often subjected to more serious performance driving than street rods, quality steering components and linkages are very important.

Flaming River simply refers to it as the "D Wheel." With an eye to maximizing driver room and comfort, this beautiful, black leather-wrapped 13.4-inch wheel is perfect for the Ecocat.

The polished swivel floor mount is installed inside the driver compartment and allows for 60 degrees of adjustment. The floor mount firewall cover gives a beautiful finished look on the inside of the engine compartment. Both are made from machined aluminum.

The firewall must be cut in order to accommodate the larger mounting area necessary for the column.

Two fiberglass pieces are cast to form a column mount cover.

With the bigger hole in the firewall cut out, the column is inserted through the firewall.

The swivel column mount assembly bolts to the steel plate installed by Jeff Schwartz at Schwartz Extreme Performance for the Wilwood pedal assembly mounting.

At this point, modification to the firewall is close to the desired size opening.

The cover is again fitted and examined for size.

The firewall still needs further trimming.

The reality of the install necessitates patience and cutting as little as possible.

The column is again removed, and the firewall is again trimmed for fit.

Cuts to the firewall are complete

Allowing adequate access for installation and removal.

A knurled billet aluminum knob on the column mount secures the column in position. The column mount bolts to a plate that will be welded in place when the column is positioned correctly.

Prior to final welding, the gas pedal is positioned to insure adequate clearance for future installation.

The steering shaft is attached to the rack and measured for proper length.

The RCI seats, mounts, and harnesses came from J.C. Whitney.

An extremely comfortable driving position is assured with the RCI seats, Flaming River column, Wilwood pedals, and Hurst shifter.

Holes are drilled through the steel plate in order to secure the column mounting.

Bolts are inserted through the floor mount, steel plate, and firewall cover.

With the Flaming River column positioned and mounted in place

the car is readied for final welding of the mounting plate to the Cheetah's underdash