Hi,

I'm new to this site. I've recently acquired a 1965 El Camino Custom and am wondering if anyone can tell me where the Protecto-O-Plate is located. A previous owner installed power steering and because of that the steering column extends about 4 inches too far from the dash. I want to find out if the power steering was originally installed at delivery or if it's after market. And if so, how do I tell if it's the correct power steering unit for the 65 El Camino. Thanks!

jak65

Hi,

I'm new to this site. I've recently acquired a 1965 El Camino Custom and am wondering if anyone can tell me where the Protecto-O-Plate is located. A previous owner installed power steering and because of that the steering column extends about 4 inches too far from the dash. I want to find out if the power steering was originally installed at delivery or if it's after market. And if so, how do I tell if it's the correct power steering unit for the 65 El Camino. Thanks!

jak65

The protectoplate is attached to the warranty booklet which some people keep in the glove compartment. If you don't have the warranty book, then you are out of luck.

The same steering columns were used with standard or power steering. I don't know what other power steering unit could have been installed that would move your steering column back 4 inches. Maybe the steering column was replaced.

Bruce

Unless some oddball steering gear was used it won't cause the column to mount any differently in the car. My guess would be the column is from a truck or full size car and is too long.
There is another thread running on the steering column problem you are asking about.http://www.chevelles.com/forums/showthread.php?t=119347