Steering coupling replacement
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 121
Likes: 2
From: Middletown Delaware
Steering coupling replacement
I need to replace the rag joint on my 78. Seams simple enough! Did a search, got Jim's paper, just need to order the kit. Now the problem. One vendor says all replacements used in the rebuild kits are not correct, do not have the proper steel reinforcement. From me search I understood that the steel was electrical. They suggest I use a complete replacement. Another dealer say's they have a complete replacement but it will leave your steering wheel 180 deg. off and it will need to be removed and corrected. Who is right? Is there a reliable correct rebuild kit available? Do I need to replace the entire coupling? Has anyone successfully used a flaming river U joint? Thanks
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,006
Likes: 28
From: Lutz Florida
I would replace the steering coupler with a genuine OEM (Saginaw) part. Most of the kits lack the correct shoulder bolts, and your horn may not work afterwards if the kit is missing the copper screen in the rubber disc.
With an OEM part you won't have to worry about the steering wheel being 180 degrees off or the horn not working or much worse things happening.
GM Parts direct has them, as well as a number of vendors, and the part is still available from your GM dealer. The cost should run you somewhere between 70 and 100 dollars for the OEM. Some vendors sell both the OEM and a Chinese made copy (thats the one that may be 180 degrees off). Make sure you are getting the real deal.
If you have Jim Shea's info thats posted on Corvettefaq, he has an interesting paper there on the steering coupler vs. using a U joint. When I replaced mine I just replaced it with an OEM steering coupler after reading his paper.
With an OEM part you won't have to worry about the steering wheel being 180 degrees off or the horn not working or much worse things happening.
GM Parts direct has them, as well as a number of vendors, and the part is still available from your GM dealer. The cost should run you somewhere between 70 and 100 dollars for the OEM. Some vendors sell both the OEM and a Chinese made copy (thats the one that may be 180 degrees off). Make sure you are getting the real deal.
If you have Jim Shea's info thats posted on Corvettefaq, he has an interesting paper there on the steering coupler vs. using a U joint. When I replaced mine I just replaced it with an OEM steering coupler after reading his paper.
Last edited by stock76; May 27, 2009 at 10:46 PM.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 2,590
Likes: 403
From: Nashville TN
St. Jude Donor '09
I installed a u-joint and love it so far. It was a straight foward install . . . unbolt rag joint, drop the steering column, remove steering column, and drill small hole to secure u-joint to shaft, put back together. Just follow the directions . . . I can take a pic if you are interested. Be sure to do a search on the forum to learn the pros and cons of u-joints, but they really helped to tighten up the steering. It took me about an hour.
Also, be sure to use red loctite on the set screw to keep it from backing out
Also, be sure to use red loctite on the set screw to keep it from backing out
