Steering wheel nut threads

drpepper1885

drpepper1885

Member
Hello. I had to take my steering wheel off this evening and in the process of using the steering wheel removal tool, I messed up the first couple of threads on the steering column for the steering wheel nut. I know that the Model A Handbook states that the threads are very fragile. I am thinking that I can just use a tap and die to get things back to fitting correctly. Anyone run into this problem before? Thanks for your input.
 
Depending on how badly you boogered up the threads, there is a solution I'm sure. One that comes to mind would be to split a die in half. Clamp it on the threads where the threads are good, and then back the die off the shaft, straightening the threads as you back off the die. There used to be tools available specifically for this type of fix, but I don't think they are available any more. You might try a nut, split and used the same way. Cheaper than destroying a die.
 
If all else fails. Snyders (and probably others) sell a repair kit to replace the threads.
 
Mine were buggered up and I couldn't find a die that size. I purchased a set of small files at Harbor Freight and set and carefully dressed the threads and the nut went on. It took a couple of fittings but patience prevailed.
 
There are thread files available to fix damaged threads. They come in sizes according to the thread pitch (threads per inch). My son has a set that I have used on occasion. Don/WI
 
I recommend trying the thread file first before using dies. Trying to get the die onto the shaft could screw it up more, so to speak.
 
Go to a old fashion hardware store and ask for a thread file or a thread chaser.
Option no. 2---- determine the size and thread and go at it with a die. you may have to work it a little with a file to get the die started.
Option no. 3--- try to find someone with an old tap and die set that the dies are made in two pieces, and can bet put on the lower part of the shaft with the good threads, then back it off. I have a set that my Grandpa gave me many years ago that he used when working in garages. I saw one recently on e-bay. Real handy around older cars because of its ability to rethread axle shaft and spindle threads.
Hope this helps. Keep trying, you will get it.
Roger
 
Don Turley said:
The thread size is the same as the rear axle nut, 5/8"-18. There are tools made for repairing axle threads, like the one in the attached photo.
Click to expand...

Don,

That (post #6) is definitely the right tool for the job. If he only placed his general location in his profile someone might offer to loan him one.


Charlie Stephens
 
Had the same problem. Got in too big of a hurry. I used and old/extra steering wheek nut. Using the grinder I ground some of thedepth off of it - Only had four threads left - Sawed it in half - then using a hose clamp clamped it around the steering wheel shaft threads below the damaged ones. Then very carefully backed the nut off until it straightened out the boogered up threads.
 
The tool shown is the perfect one, and surely someone near you who reads this has one.
ANY of the methods involving a split tool will do and be superior to thread files, because your threads are almost certainly compressed and not just surface damaged. A split tool, especially if started loose then progressively tightened, will try to roll the damaged threads back into place rather than just cutting across them. That metal is surprisingly soft...
Split a normal die, split a nut, find one of us that has the axle tool. For a little more money, "Little Giant" makes split dies that come with a special handle that allows you to progressively tighten the spacing until you reach the mark indicating normal thread diameter. If you buy it in 5/8--18 you will find multiple uses...every really troublesome part on a Model A uses that size!
Correct pulling should be done with:
A. Nut run to top of threads and left there till puller pops...
B. A small bolt, preferably with a dimple drilled into center of head, dropped into hollow shaft top as the bearing point for puller ram.

If you want a permanent tool, get a repro "bingo" wheel puller for $5 or so from any Ford vendor and cut it down into a cap for the threads.
 
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