trouble installing steering coupler onto steering gearbox

[exdrocca]

Hi there, I'm switching my '69 c-10 over to power steering. I bought a "new" power steering box from pepboys, and I bought a the steering coupler from LMC, that is to be used with power steering. The splines seem to all line up, but it is a very tight fit. I was wondering if there is a certain way to install this piece. Or maybe I have to wrong part. Just looking for some help.

Thank you

[Wrenchbender Ret]

There are 2 different size shafts on those. There is a flat spot on the shaft & the joint. If it is lined up right you probably dont have the right size.

[exdrocca]

Ahh ok yeah Both shaft and joint have a flat spot. They do line up, but seems as if they would have to be pressed on. Thank you.

[plumber36757]

Take a socket and tap it on thats what classic told me to do and it went right on.

[29od1]

You can also count the splines of the rag joint and the steering box shaft to make sure they'll match. I think the two different sizes are 31 spline and 36 spline. It really shouldn't take that much effort to get them together as long as you have the bolt removed from the rag joint.

[whoryou1979]

A little force action never hurts.

[exdrocca]

Ok, thanks for your help. I guess I shouldn't have to ever take them apart again. I will beat that thing on then hah.

[kcsa75]

I'm curious how it turns out. I replaced my steering box a couple of months ago and ran into the same issue. I got the wrong size first, then once I got the right one, I tried beating it on and broke the rag joint.
Finally, I went down to the LMC counter and they had the steering box with the rag joint attached. It was a little more money, but by that time, well worth it. I took the other parts back to O'Reilly got my money back.

[exdrocca]

I am hoping to work on it this weekend, so I will let you know how good or bad I make out.

[exdrocca]

For you who were wondering. So all it took was a little lube, a couple good whacks with a hammer and socket, and the coupling slide right on like it was meant to.

Got another question though. What is the best way to center the wheels, steering wheel while installing pitman arm back on so that I get the same amount of turns left or right and have the steering wheel centered?

[cdowns]

i've used a cold chisel to spread the coupler slightly but still needd some forc to drive it on// a light greasing of the splines helps if you need to take it apart 10years from now

[68gmsee]

Originally Posted by exdrocca

.......Got another question though. What is the best way to center the wheels, steering wheel while installing pitman arm back on so that I get the same amount of turns left or right and have the steering wheel centered?

Normally, one would take it to a shop that specializes in front ends but if you need to get it close raise the front tires and check to make sure the gearbox input shaft is centered by counting the steering wheel turns left and right.

After you make sure steering gearbox is centered loosen the tie rod end clamps on both wheels and turn each one the same amount to get the wheels as close to straight as you can and then drive it to an alignment shop.

[whoryou1979]

I agree with 68gmsee. In the future, I would try to center the wheels and steering wheel before installing. Makes it easier.