Repair of Leaking Steering Box

[LakeJohn]

I want to repair a leaking steering box on my BJ8. I have the two key parts of oil seal and dust excluder. The shop manual says that I need a service tool (extractor) to remove the steering arm from the splines on the shaft. I do not have this tool labeled as 18G 75A. Is there an alternative procedure that I could use to remove the steering arm without damaging the shaft? The oil seal replacement seems simple after removal of the steering arm. Any suggestion would be appreciated.

Jack White
Leesburg, Virginia

 

[johnea]

Jack,

The alternative tool would be a two legged hub puller.
Put a tin under the box to collect the oil before removing the seal.

 

[Dave Russell]

The seal can be replaced with the steering box in place. As you have found, it takes a very compact but powerful puller to remove the steering arm.

Attached is a pic of the "Stahlwille #12616 puller". Made in Germany. It is the most compact & powerful puller that I have found.
D

 

[steveg]

Jack,
Is there play in the shaft? If there is, it means the bushing above the seal is worn and will need to be replaced.

 

[Randy Forbes]

You might want to take a look here: https://www.britishcarforum.com/bcforum/ubbthreads.php/topics/376958/Re_Oil_Leaks#Post376958

You know, just about everything on the car has been done by <span style="font-style: italic">somebody</span> here, you just have to search for it. :wink:

 

[Stretch]

Also check play between the shaft and the top of the body (above the replaceable bush). Check it dry of oil. It may have to be bored and sleeved. Shouldn't be more than 1-2 mils play. A little wear there adds to steering wheel play while driving straight forward. Also, apply an oil resistant thread sealant on bolts that are drilled through to the oil reservoir. Found that out the hard way. Love that pesky oil!