I have a 1939 ford deluxe banjo steering wheel and column and it is apart. I have not worked with one of these before so need some help. The steering shaft, column, and wheel are definitely all 1939 ford.
1. On the steering shaft approx. 8" from the steering wheel end is a steel band around the shaft. It has a groove in it and I'm told the ignition switch works with this to lock the steering wheel when the key is out. Does this shaft go into the column only one way? To get it into position it seems that you just rotate it in the column until it sort of clicks into place. But when I put the key in the switch it turns, but the on/off lever on the ignition switch does not move back and forth. Before it was taken from the '39 ford the key did turn and the on/off switch did flip back and forth. When I put it back together only the key turns. It does feel gritty but the key does turn. How to fix?
2. The woodruff key that fits into the steering wheel and the end of the steering shaft fits the wheel and shaft together. Is this all that keeps the wheel and shaft together? I am new at this, but it would appear this is all that keeps the steering wheel from spinning free on the shaft enabling the steering wheel to turn the car. Is this key strong enough or am I missing something? Thanks

You might also want to ask at

Fordbarn.com

Jimmy in nc

Thank you, Jimmy in NC. Hope they have the info I need.
Jim

Hey Jim,

Your welcome. That is a good site for the older cars like yours. I have a 39 ford coupe but have not done enough with it to learn or pass on any info.

Working on a 51 ford now as my everyday driver I hope.

Jimmy in nc

I'll try to share some knowledge with you. The woodruff key is one big spline that lets the steering wheel turn the shaft. There is a lock washer and nut on the end of the shaft that keeps the wheel on the shaft. The shaft is tapered and the nut forces the wheel onto the taper to ensure good, solid contact with wheel key and shaft. The taper also prevents the base of the collar on the wheel and the column from rubbing. Now to your key problem. The correct operation is the key locks and unlocks the steering column. You are supposed to be able to remove/insert the key when in the locked position. When turning the key after insertion, the locking pin is retracted from a collar on the shaft. When retracted,(unlocked), the ignition lever is aligned with the locking pin so it can be moved from the off to on position. Some where in your removal process, you have the internal parts installed incorrectly. I'll try to find some pics in my old early V-8 book that will let you tear down and reassemble correctly. The first time is tricky because of the wring off bolt that has to be drilled and removed with an easy out. There is also a spring and ball that can fall out and it can be difficult for you to determine where and how it goes. I happen to have an old one of these and I'll try to make pics if I can't find what you need in the book.

Trees