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Re: steering box replacement blues!! (archive)
[ Follow Ups ] [ 2002 Message Board ] [ Msg. Board FAQ ]
Posted by Dennis on March 05, 2000 at 13:52:38:

In Reply to: steering box replacement blues!! posted by steve on March 05, 2000 at 12:56:15:

: Hi all,

: I'm in the final stages of replacing my steering box. I can't seem to find a way to bring the flexible coupling clamp back down the steering column to it's original position so I can finish the job and tighten everything down. The clamp sticks about an inch from where it needs to be because it engages with the teeth on the column and gets really tight( a good thing when everything is done and you're on the road). I've tried spreading it with various makeshift tools, but there's so little room to manuever, I can't get good leverage to spread the clamp AND bring it down at the same time!

: Can anyone who's had this problem provide any tips? I'm starting to get in that desparate and frustrated mode, so I'll really appreciate the help and support!

: TIA,

: Steve
: '75 2002

Steve,
I know this is a pain-in-the @#! job but here's what's worked for me many times. Hopefully you haven't yet attached the steering arm to the center track rod and you have REMOVED the thru bolt from the stuck clamp and generously soaked the stuck clamp with WD-40 or penetrating lubricant. Working from underneath the car swing the steering arm fully to one side or the other, have a helper hold the steering wheel in a position where the split in the clamp is facing down. Using a 12" (min) flat blade screwdriver with flat sides(ala Craftsman #41588) insert the tip into the split in the clamp, attach a suitable wrench to the flat sides of the screwdriver to gain more leverage and move the screwdriver back and forth which will open the clamp enough to get it to move. You may need to spray more lubricant and wait awhile. Be sure to remove the clamp and clean both the inside of it and the shaft splines with a wire brush to help align the clamp when bolting everything up. Be sure to check the rubber donut for detereration and use new bolts with steel locknuts. It's always worked for me. If it doesn't, remove the engine and . . . just kidding.

Good luck

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