Steering Gearbox Help

Discussion in 'The Bench' started by Yanchik, Jun 26, 2017.

  1. Yanchik

    Yanchik Well-Known Member

    Hey guys, I plan on doing some work to the steering gearbox in my 70' Skylark 350. Can anyone please tell me what kind of tool/socket I should use to unscrew this bolt in order to disconnect the shaft from the gearbox (picture attached and bolt circled in red). Thank you
     

    Attached Files:

  2. flynbuick

    flynbuick Guest

    First I would make sure that the steering box is the issue. What are the symptoms that cause you to suspect the box and how did you determine that the box is the issue?
     
  3. Yanchik

    Yanchik Well-Known Member

    There's nothing wrong with it but its been garaged for a while so I wanted to add some graphite grease for now. And honestly I might even change over to a faster ratio box in the near future. Just needed to know what size and tool I need to continue with the process.
     
  4. Daves69

    Daves69 Too many cars too work on

    You will need a 12 point socket for that bolt.
     
  5. Yanchik

    Yanchik Well-Known Member

    Thank you as well Daves. Would you happen to know what size? 1/2 inch possibly?
     
  6. philbquick

    philbquick Founders Club Member

    Make sure you do the "over center adjustment" while it's out.
     
  7. scubasteve455

    scubasteve455 Well-Known Member

    Philbquick You say Over center adjustment. Please explain in detail. Also how do I get the play out of my steering? ( arms going back n forth) but car going straight.
     
  8. gstewart

    gstewart Well-Known Member

    On top of the steering box, is a nut with a blot inside that requires an allen key wrench. U can loosen that nut and tighten the bolt within. Thta may or may not snug up the gears but there is a limit u can tighten this bolt. the steering may get tight but may not stop the play. If that is the case, then it is time for a rebuild. "Hector" on this site offers a great rebuilt service. He rebuilt my steering box.
     
  9. yachtsmanbill

    yachtsmanbill Well-Known Member

    That lash adjuster is pretty sensitive. A SLIGHT over tightening will cause the steering not to return to center on its own after a turn... OOPS! hit the curb; or worse. Take a look at the idler arm (pitman arm on passenger side frame rail with 2 bolts). Thatll raise havoc with slack as well... ws
     
  10. toymobile

    toymobile Retired knuckle buster

    7/16, 12 point socket will be needed for the bolt in question.

    Johnny
     
  11. LARRY70GS

    LARRY70GS a.k.a. "THE WIZARD" Staff Member

    The more likely cause will be worn parts in the front end. I wouldn't touch any adjustment on the steering box.
     
  12. flynbuick

    flynbuick Guest

    Exactly.
     
  13. Jahimbi Blammo

    Jahimbi Blammo Well-Known Member

    I'm fortunate to have a reputable alignment shop in my area. They specialize in older cars. If you have a shop like that in your area, I would take the car to them because they will find exactly what is wrong in a matter of minutes. The shop I go to goes over every detail of the front end and they make all the necessary adjustments (including the steering box). Have you checked your spindles, tie rods, pitman arm, control arms, wheel bearings, ect.???
     
  14. Yanchik

    Yanchik Well-Known Member

    Awesome, Thank you so much!
     
  15. gstewart

    gstewart Well-Known Member

    I had to use an impact gun to remove that bolt.
     
  16. scubasteve455

    scubasteve455 Well-Known Member

    Ok Thanks. That's what I heard. You go to far . Then can't get back
     

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