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Steering column problems

Whitephrog

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Spend some time today unsuccessfully trying to re-install the steering column on my BE. Everything seemed to line up well but I couldn't get the shaft any further down the spindle than about half way. I loosened up the rack thinking I had a slight misalignment but that didn't work either. Suggestions?
 
Hmm, long rod threaded on one end with splines to fit to rack at other = Shaft

Cover for same runs from rear of dash to under the carbs some place. Has two felt washers in side to act as bushings. = Spindle

Make sure felt washers are not screwed up then push the shaft, threaded end into the spindle end that is rounded a bit, Push on through till threaded end sticks out just a bit then install in car.
 
Ray, I just did this. Everything went together easily (for once). I did have to make sure the outer steering tube bracket was loose for everything to slide together easily initially. I then tightened everything up. Make sure to put tape on the dashboard hole so you don't scrape anything up. By the way, it was a little tight on the splines when it first went on, and I did have to gently put a wooden block on the steering column shaft and tap it lightly.
Kevin
 
I guess, that is very soft steel and will spread in a heartbeat.
 
Sorry Jack. I wasn't clear on the issue. The problem is the inner column not sliding completely onto the steering rack pinion.
 
Ray, with the bolt out, tap the small side of an old wooden clothes pin that you have taken apart into the slit.

Should widen it just enough to slide on w/o any pounding with a BFH.

Good Luck

Steve
 
Seems Steve has an excellent idea. Supose I would have just used a large screw driver but....
 
I did that when I was younger Jack and the car was too. Now days I just use the slow n easy method. Also is another way to use the clothes pins my wife keeps buying me for Xmas.

Ray, make sure that you use a GOOD locking nut on the cross bolt.

It wasn't my bugeye, but I was driving when the steering shaft and the pinion disconnected. Put a pretty good pucker in the vinyl!!!

Take care-Steve
 
I beleve you will find that bolt not only has a locking nut but is a grade 8. If it goes away look for the eject button.
 
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