WOD Universal Steering Column Kit – 12" or 24" DOM Tubing
WF03022
The WOD Universal Steering Column Kit gives builders the flexibility to fabricate a custom steering column for off-road buggies, rock crawlers, Ultra4 race cars, and tube chassis vehicles. Designed around heavy-duty DOM tubing with a DOM inner shaft and UHMW support bushings, this kit allows you to position the steering wheel exactly where you want it while relocating the steering control unit outside the passenger compartment for improved safety and packaging.
Available in 12" and 24" lengths, this fabrication-ready kit provides a durable foundation for both full hydraulic and mechanical steering systems. The UHMW bushings promote smooth shaft rotation while reducing friction and play, making this an ideal solution for custom steering column fabrication in demanding off-road environments.
Includes:
- (1) 1.5" OD x .120" Wall DOM Outer Tube (12" or 24")
- (1) 3/4" OD x .120" Wall DOM Inner Shaft (12" or 24")
- (2) UHMW Steering Shaft Support Bushings
Note: This is a fabrication component. Additional steering components are sold separately.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Wide Open Design |
| Product Type | Universal Steering Column Kit |
| Outer Tube | 1.5" OD x .120" Wall DOM Steel |
| Inner Shaft | 3/4" OD x .120" Wall DOM Steel |
| Bushing Material | UHMW |
| Available Lengths | 12" or 24" |
| Application | Custom Steering Column Fabrication |
| Compatible Steering Systems | Mechanical or Full Hydraulic |
| Intended Use | Off-Road, Race, and Custom Vehicles |
Fitment
Universal Fitment for Custom Steering Fabrication
Common Applications:
- Rock crawlers
- Rock bouncers
- Ultra4 race cars
- Tube chassis vehicles
- Trail rigs
- Custom off-road buggies
- Prerunners
- Competition vehicles
- Mechanical steering systems
- Full hydraulic steering systems
Fitment Notes:
- Designed for custom fabrication and installation.
- Additional steering shaft supports, U-joints, couplers, steering wheel hub, and steering control unit are required.
- Proper steering shaft alignment is critical for smooth steering operation.
- Support bearings should be positioned to minimize shaft deflection.
- Verify steering wheel location, seating position, and chassis clearance before welding permanent mounts.
- Always inspect steering travel through the full suspension range before vehicle operation.
FAQ
Why relocate the steering control unit?
Many custom off-road vehicles mount the steering control unit outside the passenger compartment to improve safety, simplify hydraulic hose routing, and keep heat generated by the hydraulic steering system away from the occupants.
Why are UHMW bushings used?
UHMW bushings provide excellent wear resistance with very low friction, allowing the steering shaft to rotate smoothly while helping reduce vibration, shaft play, and maintenance.
Can this be used with full hydraulic steering?
Yes. The kit is commonly used in full hydraulic steering systems, but it also works well for mechanical steering applications where a custom steering column is required.
Is this a complete steering column?
No. This kit provides the primary steering column tube, inner shaft, and support bushings. Steering U-joints, couplers, mounts, steering wheel hub, steering wheel, and steering control unit must be selected separately to suit the vehicle.
How do I choose between the 12" and 24" versions?
Select the length that best matches your cockpit layout and steering shaft routing. Many builders begin with a longer column and trim it during mock-up to achieve the desired steering wheel position.
Why is proper shaft support important?
Correctly positioned support bushings help minimize steering shaft deflection, reduce vibration, improve steering feel, and extend the service life of U-joints and steering components.
