Chris
78 F150 2xcustom longbed

Just replaced the steering gear box for my F150, when I took off the flex coupling I noticed the splines that mate with the steering box shaft are worn almost 1/3 of the way around. I couldn't find this part to replace with new so went to some local salvage yards. I dismantled 3 other trucks and found the EXACT same smooth spot on the bracket. Anyone have any ideas? Is this thing designed this way, which I doubt? Is it critical enough I need to keep scrounging or am I alright and just replace the rubber portion and bolt back on? Appreciate any comments and if anyone has a spare one floating around not worn, let me know. Thanks

Chris

 

Its been a while since I had mine apart, but I think that area is supoest to be smooth, is it square there?? if so its right that way, anyone else want to confirm??

 

I'm pretty sure it's supposed to be that way. Either way, if it isn't causing any problems, don't worry about it. Everything in that area kinda holds together pretty tight when bolted in. I think that you would immediately notice if the smooth spot were a problem.

 

I agree, if it was too bad I'd notice pretty quick. The reason I'm replacing the steering gear and started most of this work was because of play in the steering. I could move the steering wheel a couple of inches without affecting the direction of the tires. I've replaced everything in the steering below the steering gear without affecting this play, so I figured I'd keep moving up. When I saw the smooth part on the flex coupling I wondered if this might be a result of some of that play.

Appreciate the comments, so far it doesn't sound like anything I need to be worried about or struggle to find a better replacement.

Thanks again

Chris
78 F150 2xcustom longbed

 

I had a lot of play in my steering. Although I replaced the box for a completely different problem, I'm convinced that the play was eliminated by the replacement of that coupling (aka rag joint). Good luck.

 

You may want to crawl under and have someone wiggle the steering wheel in both directions. Look for any parts moving that move without causing the wheels to turn. Could be outer or inner tie rod ends...
There is also an adjustment for the steering box, but it should only be adjusted by no more than a quarter turn, or you could wear out a gear.
Mark


Ford started it; Ford will finish it!