66 Steering Column
Thread Starter
Advanced
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 76
Likes: 5
66 Steering Column
All,
I have a couple of things that I'm hoping you all can help with ... the steering column was pulled (by me) about 10 years ago. We replaced the column due to a groove being cut in it from a failed bearing. We replaced the bearings, canceling cam, and most all other parts that might need it.
So, I've noticed play increasing and a squeak when turning the steering wheel. Inspecting the steering column, I found that the play is the column starting to move in the upper rag joint (like the splines are gone). I am 90% sure it's the original rag joint.
My thought is to pull the column and replace the bearings and check the internals. One question ... I'm wondering if I can pull just the steering shaft without the entire column? But, I also think the rag joint needs to be replaced. Does anyone know where one might find one? It looks like it's been discontinued. I used to be able to go to LIC or Paragon, but no longer. Thoughts and suggestions appreciated?
I have a couple of things that I'm hoping you all can help with ... the steering column was pulled (by me) about 10 years ago. We replaced the column due to a groove being cut in it from a failed bearing. We replaced the bearings, canceling cam, and most all other parts that might need it.
So, I've noticed play increasing and a squeak when turning the steering wheel. Inspecting the steering column, I found that the play is the column starting to move in the upper rag joint (like the splines are gone). I am 90% sure it's the original rag joint.
My thought is to pull the column and replace the bearings and check the internals. One question ... I'm wondering if I can pull just the steering shaft without the entire column? But, I also think the rag joint needs to be replaced. Does anyone know where one might find one? It looks like it's been discontinued. I used to be able to go to LIC or Paragon, but no longer. Thoughts and suggestions appreciated?
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 6,539
Likes: 1,971
From: Temple Terrace Florida
I would pull the entire column. It is easier to work on it on your bench. As far as the rag joint is concerned, they have been discontinued for some time. They come up on eBay from time to time. There is a rubber replacement out there that is dubious at best. Some have replaced the joint with a universal type joint. Check some of the posts by Gary at GTR1999. He and others have addressed then issue and solutions. Jerry
Drifting
Joined: Oct 2018
Posts: 1,443
Likes: 720
From: Fairfax, Virginia
In addition to looking for a rag joint on ebay as Jerry mentioned, they also pop up here on our C2 Corvette Forum under the For Sale section from time to time.
A nicely restored one will run you about $325 including shipping. Give or take. Good luck with the hunt. C.J.
A nicely restored one will run you about $325 including shipping. Give or take. Good luck with the hunt. C.J.
Thread Starter
Advanced
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 76
Likes: 5
Thank you everyone for the help. Another question that I have is now that LIC and Paragon are no longer in business, where does one go for the parts to rebuild these cars? I sure miss those two companies ...
Thanks
Thanks
