keeping the factory steering column
If you want to keep the factory steering column, you'll need to shorten it at a point approximately seven inches out of the firewall, with about 1 1/4 inch of the shaft hanging out. You'll also need to mill a flat on the shaft, corresponding to a "double D" U-joint and requisite stub shaft. This will be used to connect the steering to the AGR rack that comes with the chassis. If you don't have access to a mill, an aftermarket replacement column will work.