Splined Steering Shaft, 5/8-36, 6 Long, Weld In Style

OVERVIEW

When you are deep into a custom chassis build or reviving a classic sand rail, steering precision is not just a luxuryit is a safety requirement. The EMPI Weld-In Splined Steering Shaft is the professional fabricator''s choice for creating a rock-solid link between the steering column and the steering box or rack and pinion. Measuring 6 inches in total length, this shaft provides ample material for custom trimming and integration into your unique steering geometry. Whether you are building a high-travel woods buggy or a street-legal Manx clone, this shaft delivers the structural integrity needed to handle high-torque steering maneuvers and off-road vibration without failing under pressure.

Engineered with the industry-standard 5/8-36 spline count, this component is designed for maximum compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket U-joints, couplers, and steering wheels. The "weld-in" design is particularly crucial for air-cooled VW enthusiasts because stock steering setups rarely accommodate the custom lengths required by modified front ends or lowered beams. By utilizing high-strength steel that takes a weld cleanly, this shaft allows you to bridge the gap in your steering system with total confidence. It is a fundamental building block for any steering system that demands zero-play performance and long-term durability in the harshest environments.

FITMENT

This splined steering shaft is a universal fabrication component commonly used in the following applications:

• VW Dune Buggies: All years and models including Manx, Meyers, and various kit car bodies.
• Sand Rails & Off-Road Cars: Custom tube chassis applications requiring precise steering linkages.
• VW Beetle (Standard & Super): Custom steering column conversions from 1950 through 1979.
• VW Karmann Ghia: Modified steering systems for track or performance street builds.
• VW Type 3: Squareback, Notchback, and Fastback custom steering setups.
• VW Bus / Type 2: Custom steering shaft extensions for lowered or modified vans.
• Woods Buggies & Hunting Rigs: Heavy-duty steering repairs and custom fabrications.

SPECS

• Part Number: FAB-3017
• Material: High-Carbon Steel (Raw finish for optimal weldability).
• Spline Diameter: 5/8 Inch.
• Spline Count: 36 Splines.
• Total Length: 6 Inches.
• Installation Style: Weld-In / Fabricator Grade.
• Compatibility: Fits all standard 5/8-36 U-joints and couplers.
• Quantity: Sold Individually.

PRO TIPS

1. Prioritize Weld Penetration and Safety

Because this is a critical steering component, your welding technique is paramount. Before welding this shaft into your tubing, we recommend chamfering (beveling) the edges of both the shaft and the tube it is sliding into. This creates a "V" groove that allows for deeper weld penetration. Use a high-quality MIG or TIG welder and ensure you are getting a clean, hot weld that fuses the core of the metals. Never "tack weld" and call it a day; a steering failure on the trail or the highway can be catastrophic. Always inspect your welds for porosity or cold-lap before final assembly.

2. Understand U-Joint Phasing

If you are using this splined shaft in conjunction with multiple U-joints to navigate a complex steering angle, you must "phase" your joints correctly. This means the yokes at both ends of the intermediate shaft must be aligned in the same plane. If the U-joints are out of phase, it can cause a "lumpy" or "notchy" feeling in the steering wheel as you turn, which leads to premature wear on the splines and the joints themselves. Align the "ears" of the yokes perfectly before finalizing your weld-in positions to ensure smooth, linear steering feedback.

3. Protect the Splines During Fabrication

It is incredibly easy to accidentally splatter weld slag onto the precision-cut 5/8-36 splines during the installation process. Before you start pulling the trigger on your welder, wrap the splined end of the shaft in heavy-duty aluminum foil or use a dedicated anti-spatter spray. If even a small bead of slag lands in the spline grooves, it will prevent your U-joint or coupler from sliding on smoothly, forcing you to spend hours with a needle file trying to repair the damage. A little bit of protection upfront saves a massive headache during the final assembly phase.