Rag joint - Best Know method
Thread Starter
Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 23,367
Likes: 1,061
From: Virginia USA
Rag joint - Best Know method
I am going to replace my rag joint and I would like to know the best method to get it off the steering rod. Is it better to loosen or remove the steering box or loosen the column under the dash to separate the rods? How far do the rods have to be apart to take the joint out? As you can guess I am trying to do this the fastest way without removing a lot. Car: 1971 350SB without PS.
Pro
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 541
Likes: 5
From: Epping NH
Just did this. After trying both methods, we settled on dropping the steering column. Remove the two bolts at the dash and two more on the fire wall. This allows the column to slide forward.
I would suggest that you remove the bolts at the joint first. Mine required a lot of tugging and it would have been much harder to do if the column were flopping around.
Mark
I would suggest that you remove the bolts at the joint first. Mine required a lot of tugging and it would have been much harder to do if the column were flopping around.
Mark
Race Director
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 11,874
Likes: 263
From: Arlington Va Current ride 04 vert, previous vettes: 69 vert, 77 resto mod
start soaking the nuts and bolts ASAP....we had a bear getting it out with the engine out and the gear box almost disconnected..
Race Director
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 16,978
Likes: 7
From: In Dreams There Is Truth Ohio
Originally Posted by Uncle Ralphy
I did this about 4 months ago. I removed the steering box. It wasn't a hard job.
I'm with the steering box crowd...getting under the dash to get at the bolts then back under and tightening...no thanks...the box is easier to reach...
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Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 1,218
Likes: 2
From: Plainfield IL
My Chilton's manual says to remove the streering column. No mention of steering box removal. Is a puller required to remove the (2) rag joint flanges from the steering shaft, or do they readily come off?
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 8,339
Likes: 24
From: I can walk to MA
They should readily come off - unless caked with rust.
In order to "properly" install and align the coupler, the steering
column needs to move. If properly aligned to begin, then you
can probably get away fine with dropping the box. Then, it comes
down to whether you prefer a cricked neck or black greasy hands.
Good luck.
In order to "properly" install and align the coupler, the steering
column needs to move. If properly aligned to begin, then you
can probably get away fine with dropping the box. Then, it comes
down to whether you prefer a cricked neck or black greasy hands.
Good luck.
