Abstract

A steering column and cowl support frame for vehicles having a fiber glass body is disclosed. The support frame comprises a pair of opposed rear braces vertically abutting the inside surface of opposed side walls of the cowl and a pair of opposed front braces extending downward and forward from an upper end of the rear braces. Upper gussets join the upper ends of the front and rear opposed braces together and lower gussets attach a lower end of the front braces to the vehicle frame. A rear portion of the gussets extends rearward a distance and then outward at a rear edge of the cowl to form door hinge supports. A cross brace extends transversely across the vehicle. A pedal support extends longitudinally between the cross brace and a fire wall of the cowl. A horizontal wall of the cross brace is attached at a rear end thereof to the cross brace, and a pair of opposed downward extending vertical walls integral with the top wall support a pair of opposed outward projecting pedal support bushings for the brake and clutch pedals of the vehicle. The steering column has an outward projecting flange at its lower end abutting the floor pan. The lower end of the steering column is secured to the floor pan. A column clamp encircles the steering column and secures the upper end of the steering column to the pedal support bracket.