1970 K5 Rag Joint Replace or Not?

[K5Fan]

Is it normal for the pins of the Rag Joint to hit the sides of the coupler?

I am replacing the steering box in my Blazer. The current Rag Joint on my Blazer has several layers of what I would say looks like the steel belts of a tire, but I can tell that they are some kind of vinyl. I have seen these on my other Blazers and Jimmys. I got a new Rag Joint, but it is only rubber...no layers of vinyl in the joint. I can see a mark where the current Rag Joint has been hitting the side of the coupler, but the new one has much more play in it.

I'm thinking that I'm going to stick with the one that is in it, but I've always been told to replace the Rag Joint. I will try to send some pics, but I still need to get more familiar with how to do that on my posts. Thanks for all the help!!

Chris.

[Yukon Jack]

Your current rag joint looks to be in great shape - I'd stick with it.

[K5Fan]

Thanks Yukon Jack. I ended up using the one that was on there. Also, I forgot that the original steering couplers have the ground wiring inside the assembly so you don't have to run a jumper around the rag joint. I couldn't find an aftermarket joint that had that. I always thought that Chevrolet put in that internal wiring as a ground for the horn and turn signals.

Is that right?

Thanks Again!