adjusting two tooth steering box

western77

western77

Senior Member
I am rebuilding my model A steering box. It is a two tooth box. I put a new nos sector in but used the old worm. When I adjusted the box according to the Andrews book, I can get the movment out of the pitman arm in the center position. But when I move to the right or left 1/2 turn, I can shake the arm 1/8 inch. It is the same amount on both sides but tight in the center position. Is this the ware in the worm showing up? Should the worm and the sector be in constant mesh without any play in the pitman arm in the whole turning from stop to stop? Thanks, JB
 
It is normal for the mesh to be tighter in the center. (That's where it needs to be tight).
One of the adjustments allows you be make sure that the tighter spot is actually in the center, and not off to one side.
If it was loose in the center and tighter off to either side, that wold be a sure sign that the worm is worn out.
Do you mean you can move the ball end of the arm 1/8" when it is off-center? That sounds quite reasonable to me.

Doug
 
Hi Doug, Yes it is the ball end of the arm. Thanks for information. I will paint the box and assemble it inthe car next week. JB
 
Are the bearing races on the worm OK? Also check the upper bearing race (the part that the steering column clamps to) for cracks. Those were the parts that I had to replace on my steering.

Doug
 
Yes, the races and bearings look good. The upper race had some pits so I reground it on the lathe, no cracks. The up and down adjustment of the worm gear felt real good, rotated very smooth with no tight spots. I also bored out the sector housing and put in the roller bearings and a seal on the end. Thanks for your imput. JB
 
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