Hi guys,
I'm working on Luci's steering shaft and need to know how close to the headrr is too close for one of the newer style steering dampers? As it stands now, I have about 3.5 inches between the end of the column and the header. I would like to attach the damper/ujoint to the column but that will put me about 1.5 inches from the header.

Any thoughts?

 

Are you asking about a "rag joint"?

 

Not a rag joint but it does the same thing except it's the size of a coupler.

 

Maybe it's just me, but I don't like those things. I eliminated one when I replaced the column. Never had any vibration in the steering. I think with the new power steering units they aren't necessary (IMO). Just seems like a weak point.

They do make a new style damper, all steel. But again, I've never felt the need.

As far as heat from the header, I guess it depends on what the dampen material is made of. Will it burn or melt?

 

http://www.borgeson.com/xcart/catalog/3_4DD_X_1DD-p-693.html

I think these have urethane inside. Basically, I'm doing it to reduce engine vibration more than road. But my concern is that I get this thing too close to the header and melt it

 

I would say that 1.5 inches is far enough away but you could mount a sheet metal shield between the two items to stop radiant heat. You can also call Borgeson directly and get their take.

 

Just got off the phone with them. They said "you should at least be able to get your thumb in there". I'm a damn yeti, that's an inch and a half. Yeah, so I should be good. Just need to figure out this path, now and how I can mount the second support bearing.

Thanks guys

 

Pictures when done.

 

I've been horrible about pictures this entire build but I'll try

 

Some how, I remembered to take pictures!!

Mii after market front end w/power rack (mid 80s T-Bird)
32" CPP column (sketchy quality)
3.5" drop hanger
302 w/BBK long tube
Borgeson 1" DD > 3/4 DD steering damper
Flaming River 3/4 DD > 3/4 DD u-joint
Borgeson 3/4- 36 > 3/4 DD u-joint
3/4 steering shaft support

 

Looks like it should work just fine. Good Job. Which joint is supposed to be the special one, they look like standard Borgeson joints at first glance. Never mind I see it is the top one, you have a ton of clearance in my book.