flexible coupling
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 294
Likes: 0
From: Jacksonville FL
Update!
Hey I just finished putting my new flexible coupling and adjusting the lash screw. It pretty much eliminated all the slop in my steering. I just wanted to say thanks again for the info and help! 
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 6,001
Likes: 113
From: Saginaw Michigan
One of the reasons that the steering column flange (and the flange that attaches to the gear input shaft) is so difficult to remove is that there is a slot right throught the flange perpendicular to the special bolt that attaches it. The special GM bolt actually "pinches" the slot closed causing the flange to "wrap" around the shaft. Add some 30 years of rust to the connections and you have parts that just do not want to come apart.
I would suggest that you soak the flange and shaft serrations with penetrating oil. Then take a heavy screwdriver and force it into the flange pinch slot. This should tend to "unwrap" the flange making it easier to remove.
I would suggest that you soak the flange and shaft serrations with penetrating oil. Then take a heavy screwdriver and force it into the flange pinch slot. This should tend to "unwrap" the flange making it easier to remove.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 6,001
Likes: 113
From: Saginaw Michigan
As I think about it, maybe my terminology wasn't as clear as it could have been. Rather than jamming or pounding the large screwdriver blade into the pinch bolt slot, you should take a narrow screwdriver blade or chissel, insert it into the slot and twist. Hopefully, you will be able to apply enough force to open the slot a small amount. This should effectively loosen the flange on the shaft.
Pounding on the tool to open the slot could damage the steering column lower bearing or the gear input shaft bearing that is right next to the respective flange.
I would be very gratefull if I could get some feedback as to how effective this method is for removing flanges from the column or steering gear.
Pounding on the tool to open the slot could damage the steering column lower bearing or the gear input shaft bearing that is right next to the respective flange.
I would be very gratefull if I could get some feedback as to how effective this method is for removing flanges from the column or steering gear.
