Newby with Steering Box Question

Hook

Hook

Senior Member
Got my 1930 Pickup back from the body shop last week. Hasn't been on the road in 30 to 40 years, and I'm at least the 4th owner in this restoration process. I got it on the road Monday, and of course had a few problems. Some I've solved after spending hours on this forum, but I can't seem to find an answer to one problem. The steering play is significant to the point of dangerous. At least one issue is caused by the Steering Sector bolts are somewhat loose. I can't seem to get any kind of wrench on the bolt heads on the inside of the frame to tighten them. Is there a special wrench or am I missing something stupid? I can get a sock on the one towards the rear, but there isn't room to fit the ratchet. Box end wrenches seem too long, even the shorter ones I have. Any and all help appreciated!
 
Your vehicle should have a 2 tooth box.. I haven't had any troubles adjusting [or getting at] them in the vehicle.. How much free-play do you have?? First I would suggest checking everything in the steering system to make sure its all adjusted and in correct working order,, that means everything from the steering box mounting thru to the wheel bearings and everything in between including the the spring perch bolts.. Then use the service bulletins for the steering box adjust procedure.. There are 4 adjustments which should be done in specific order.. Usually that will correct most problems..
 
To tighten the steering box to frame bolts,use a 5/8" open end on the inner bolts to keep them from turning-you may have to turn the bolt a bit to get the wrench on,then tighten the outer nuts & cotter pin them.Make sure the pitman arm bolt is very tight or you will have excess slack in the steering.
 
Thanks for the suggestions. I might have to cut one end off the wrench to get in on the inside bolt heads. I was reviewing Les Andrews book, and he says the bolt head is 9/16 and not 5/8, so I was beginning to think the bolts might be oversize and that was the reason I can't seem to get a wrench on them. I'll keep trying to get them tight, then work on the other areas to check per the forum.
Thanks again.
 
MUCH easier to adjust the box with the steering column out of the truck and held firmly in a vise with a spare pittman arm attached.

well worth the extra hour to remove another to replace. if the "restoration" by previous owners was typical, it will need some parts replaced anyhow.....
 
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