Need help ID'ing steering gear box

[rattleon]

Hi, I need some help on identifying this steering gear box in a '23 T bucket. I'm thinking it looks like '55-6 Mercury, but don't know for sure. I'm also wondering if I can remove the steering column rod/shaft w/o removing or disassembling the gear box?
Thanks, Jeff

 

[LOWRIDER]

Steering box looks similar to my 57. In order to remove the steering shaft, the cover (w/the adjustment screw) & the sector shaft has to be removed first. The steering shaft comes out last. Doesnt look like you have enough room to do that.

 

[Ole Don]

If your question is can you put a different column in, yes. Cut the shaft about four inches above the top of the box and put a U joint or adapter on the shaft. Also, put a rubber grommet of something on the shaft to divert water from going in the slot around the shaft. A Ball joint rubber is about the right size.