B.B. Chevelle/ El Camino Steering Shaft
 

Were the steering shaft enters the coupler that attaches to the rag joint, is it 100% that big blocks are connected with a bolt, and small blocks are pressed in?

Re: B.B. Chevelle/ El Camino Steering Shaft
 

I read somewhere that the BBs had to be bolted because there wasn't room for the welded style shaft when they installed the engine. That is also why there is an indent in the drivers side exhaust manifold, to clear the shaft. So I am pretty sure your statement is correct. All factory BB cars I have seen have the bolted joint.

Re: B.B. Chevelle/ El Camino Steering Shaft
 

I believe Tony is correct. It is a clearance issue. I don't know when the steering columns were installed at the factory, but once the engine (big block) is in with the exhaust manifolds on; you cannot install the steering shaft with the flange on it. There just isn't any room between the upper control arm mounts and the exhaust manifold for that flange to pass through.

Phil Woj.