Steering shaft finish?
 

Ive searched the forum, and it appears the correct finish on the steering shaft is "natural". While stripping mine, it appears that it has a layer of black before hitting bare metal. Im not sure if this was an old rattle can job, or if 73's should have been black.

Any help??

TIA, Tom.

Black is the correct finish however most finishes wear off around 20k miles. Give or take depending on location, road conditions....

Thanks Brewster, would you say flat or semi?

Am I correct it seeing that the box should be natural cast?

The shaft is flat and natural is correct for the steering box.

Thanks again.

after you have it nicely repainted, splash a little brake fluid on it for a correct patina. I think that's why most of them look natural. ;~)

FWIW, The steering shaft from my '71 definitely had black paint and a green inspection mark near the rag joint flange.