retiredgator

I have read the guide on adjusting the worm gear in the steering box, but don't have the scale they recommend for checking the amount of effort to move the steering wheel. Any backyard mechanic suggestions on how to take the play out of the steering wheel without the scale?

pop23235

I get both wheels off the ground and start tightening say 1/8 turn and keep checking right-left to see that the "play" is almost gone, but not gone. Leave it there. Now this is after I've either replaced or verified no other component has any looseness. Otherwise your likely to get the gear too tight and ruin some parts.

DansYellow66

If you start to feel resistance or binding as you turn the wheel through center you have gone too far and used up all the lash. It should turn smoothly through the center position.

Is your box in good condition or has it been rebuilt at some time. If really loosened up you could have to start with adjusting the sector gear nut (big nut on the rear) or get it rebuilt.

Frankie the Fink

I have a paper with a 'shadetree mechanic' technique on adjusting the box in the car.

Go here and click on attachment #1.

http://jimshea.corvettefaq.com/?p=810

I can't say if the article is a good or bad practice so -- use at your own risk!

1snake

There's only one correct way to set up a steering box and it requires using the correct tools and procedure (all linkage disconnected). That's why I paid over $200 for a dial torque wrench that only reads 0-30 in. lbs. for steering boxes and rear ends. If you don't want to buy the tools to do it right, have someone that has them do it for you.

buns

Is it a pull type scale? You can get them on E-Pay for like $3.99. Delivered.



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retiredgator

Thanks for the fish scale idea. Worked perfectly.

Ozruss61

Looks like the same unit I used. I purchased it from a fishing supply place and it worked just fine.

DZAUTO

Since you didn't mention the year model (I never understand why people do this), based on what I read, you have a 53-62 style car.

Several years ago I put this 53-62 column rebuild together. It may be of some value to you. I've been rebuilding these columns for 40+yrs.
http://www.chevytalk.org/fusionbb/sh.../225413/all/1/