steering column to firewall seal/gasket

Discussion in 'Technical' started by scooper77515, Jun 6, 2005.

  1. scooper77515

    scooper77515 No current projects.

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    Is it possible to replace that seal without removing the steering column?

    Can it be cut so that it can be slid in without taking everything apart? Maybe just those screws that hold the plate on the inside of the firewall?
     
    scooper77515, Jun 6, 2005
    #1
  2. dmhines

    dmhines Dixie Maverick Boy

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    You must remove the column to do it properly ... You could cut it to get it in but it would probably not look good or keep out the elements ...
     
    dmhines, Jun 6, 2005
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  3. scooper77515

    scooper77515 No current projects.

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    Currently, mine is gone. When I had the side pipes installed, the welder caught the seal on fire, and the carpet surrounding the hole, and now the 90 degree Houston air, and the 180 degree engine air run in "heater" mode all the time. I figured a small cut would limit most of the air flow.

    2nd related question:

    I had column shifter. Now have B&M on the floor. But column stuff is all still on the column. Will this interfere with headers? And would I be able to remove all of this if I take out the column (if I had to to replace the gasket)?

    I guess that is 3 questions.

    If I can find enough reasons to remove the column, I will have more motivation to do so. I HATE working under the dash.

    Also #4, if I remove the column, should I replace the "u-joints" on the steering column while I am in there, or are they pretty much a life-time useable part?

    QUICK!!! Get me off of here before I ask more questions!!! :eek: :eek: :eek:
     
    scooper77515, Jun 6, 2005
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  4. Mavaholic

    Mavaholic Growing older but not up!

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    You need to permantly fix the column so it is in park. Otherwise you wont be able to get your key out. There are no U joints on the columns. There is a bearing on the top but I have never seen one of these wear out or go bad. I would replace the rag joint which connects it to the steering box. You can find them in the "HELP" section at most auto parts stores. Just use the rubber ring out of the package and all your old hardware. Works better that way.
     
    Mavaholic, Jun 6, 2005
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  5. scooper77515

    scooper77515 No current projects.

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    I consider that "rag joint" to be a "u-joint", of sorts.

    Any suggestions for "fixing the column so it is in PARK".

    Currently it is in park, but every now and then, it moves a little (when I mess with my tach, which is mounted on the column) and the key gets stuck (and the steering wheel locks, which kinda sucks if you are away from home in the Hi-Lo parking lot).

    Any other suggestions, hints, comments before I get started?
     
    scooper77515, Jun 6, 2005
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