1961 steering gear question

[Harwyn B.]

I'm getting ready to re-install my steering column in my '61 and have a question about the 3711388 spacer as shown in Sect. 9, Sheet 2, page A122 of the 1961 AIM. My spacer has cast in raised all caps letters on one side the word "FRONT". It doesn't appear to me that it'd make any difference which side of the space would go against the frame because the face of the spacer is hidden, either way, by the larger casting. Is there a proper orientation of the spacer? What am I missing?

[Richard M.]

Re: 1961 steering gear question

Harwyn, As I recall "FRONT" faces away from the frame and toward front of the car, to match the profile of the steering box mating mount flange. I think the spacer can only mount one way. Item #14 from the ST-12 below.

[Harwyn B.]

[Richard M.]

Re: 1961 steering gear question

I've forgotten that it can go either way, but I'd have FRONT away from frame, facing the installer.

Rich