have original 40 plymouth.have 327/350 to install plus a 10 bolt. can just the steering gear and column be updated to fit original suspension without sub framing? OR if i have to sub, what is the best year and make to use? funds are limited so want a safe ride but dont need high tech right now.

I understand you can actually use the Chevy engine with the original steering, but it's REALLY close. Have you checked out Roy's Hot Rod Garage site? He details how he installed a Firebird clip onto his 46 Ply (same frame as yours).
http://
community-2/webtv.net/exprotech/RoysHotRodGarage

thanks alot. i really appreciate ALL input. i'll check out this site right away.

as cheap as GM replacement parts are for that subframe, and how nice they ride, I think you would be better off in the long run going that way. However if you wanted to use a late model steering collumn and box with the original front, the only problem is careful placement and crafting a fine pitman arm. I did this on a 41 hudson and was pleased with it. The way to go for conversation, but my money would still go firebird.

As a comparison, I used Ply-Do and Fatman parts to redo my stock front end (41 Dodge). Dropped spindles, new kingpins, disk brake conversion and rack&pinion steering. It works fine (the original Mopar suspension was way ahead of its contemporaries at this time), but it was a LOT of effort making things fit correctly. I figure it cost me about twice what using a clip would (I just saw an ad for a complete Firebird for $800), with engine, trans, clip of course, AC, etc.). Next time I'd go with the clip or subframe.