It appears that I have destroyed my steering column in an attempt to "shorten" it. I have located one on Ebay and will purchase it this evening. After speaking with the supplier this afternoon, and asking him to check some of the critical measurements, I am confident that it will solve my steering problems. I remain a bit pessimistic. All my parts are in for the hydraulic systems and I will hone the master cylinders tomorrow and begin the installation.
Things are looking up.
Tom McCurry