1968 polara steering column

[GOLDMYN]

Hi, what function do the 3 white plastic spacers serve on the bracket that holds the column up, beside give space. I appreciate your comments

 

[bronze turbine]

They will break away in an accident so hopefully preventing the driver from receiving massive internal injuries. I believe they were introduced at the same time as the collapsible steering column. It's the main reason why I prefer to own a '67 and up. '67 was the first year that I feel any serious effort was made to improving safety.