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I got excited today with the arrival of my rag-joint rebuild kit. I removed my steering box without paying attention to the orientation of the coupling and the pitman arm (steering arm?).
What is the procedure for re-assembly? The steering wheel was removed prior and I cannot use it as reference.
Run the box gently to each end of the travel counting the total number of turns. Then, go back from one of end of its travel in either direction half the number of turns. NEAR that point the box will be the point of highest drag if you have set up your box right. The rag joint should be installed so the index mark is straight up in that position.
The rag joint should be installed so the index mark is straight up in that position.
What index mark? Is it a physical mark on the rag joint itself or on one of the components? I didn't notice any markings on the rag joint (with the exception of "Made In China" ).
As said - center the box,center the steering wheel. Your box should have a flat on the input(worm shaft) for the joint to fit. It is possible for the pitman arm to be installed at 90* positions on the pitman shaft. You want the pitman shaft pointing to the front of the car with the box,steering wheel, and tires all aligned in the forward position.
I concernd about the joint beign made in China though- is it GM? or just an aftermarket one? If not GM buy one now while you still can get them from GM for a fair price. Should be about $60.
I concernd about the joint beign made in China though- is it GM? or just an aftermarket one? If not GM buy one now while you still can get them from GM for a fair price. Should be about $60.
It's not the entire joint, it's the "rag" part. I purchased the rebuild kit from Eckler's. Every part I received in my order was made in Taiwan or China (except the VB&P spreader bar!).