Hi ,
I'm trying to replace the failed rag joint on my 77 f150.
I've removed the brake booster as this needs replacing and affords me better access to the joint.
I'm based in North Wales UK and could only readily acquire a repair kit for the joint.
I've loosened the joint from the steering box but can't fathom out how to remove the joint from the steering shaft .
any advice or help would be much appreciated.
As you can see from the attached picture the joint has failed in epic style ( I have removed two of the bolts and tabs but there were big gaps in between the disc which looks as though it was made of a hard plastic and definitely not rubber)
many thanks
Brent
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The steering column can be unbolted from the firewall inside and slid back enough to remove the rag joint from the steering gear. You might have to undo shifter linkage but I dont think so.

 

Make sure you completely remove the bolt clamping the rag joint to the steering gear shaft...I believe there is a groove in the shaft that the bolt sits in.

 

Yes, there is a groove in the steering input shaft.....The bolt needs to be completely removed....And X2 on unbolting the column and sliding it back.......

 

Thanks for the advice , it's much appreciated.
on the inside of the cab am I just looking to release these bolts (as per pictures) in order to pull the steering column sufficiently to remove the rag joint?



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Yes. There is also an upside down cover for the steering column that should be located just below the dashboard where your knees would be located when you sit in the truck. You may want to loosen the bolts just enough to give you support, but a little slide action.

 

brilliant !
Thank you so much I'll tackle that next and report back with the outcome .
Regards
​​​​​​​Brent

 

By the way, Welcome to FTE

 

Thanks for the warm welcome.
This is my first pick up but my 6th American .
The locals in our village love it!

 

Steering coupler (rag joint) shown as 3A525 in pic:

 

Thanks to all for the information and picture's.
The rag is now off and ready to be overhauled with the repair kit sourced in the UK.
I'll update when it's done , thanks again .
Regards
Brent

 

I just finished up my rag replacement this evening, it wasn't nearly the chore I thought it was going to be. Good luck with your truck!

 

where do you guys get these ford diagrams and illustrations from? is it something i can buy, or online somewhere?

 

1973/79 Ford Truck Series 100/500 Parts Catalog available on a C/D from hipoparts.com

 

Not too often one of us gets to do this. Sorry ND, couldn't resist

Fixed your post for ya

Here's the link again:

https://www.hipoparts.com/1973-79-fo...ts-catalog-cd/