Steering box replacement - documented (2 Viewers)

[arod85]

Great write up here OP. This was much quicker than I thought it would be. I got everything put back together and the drag link doesn't align with the new pitman arm. I replaced my box with a brand new OEM and corresponding 105 arm. Installed it on the center point. I also made sure to keep the uni joint on the steering wheel linkage centered.

I know there's a center point in the steering box and I'd like to make sure I keep that in tolerance. I didn't know if I should move the steering wheel or adjust the drag link.

View attachment 3491994View attachment 3491995What was the solution for the off set?

 

[NorCalFJ100]

@arod85 I was careful to not touch pitman arm when unpacking it. I assumed it was manufactured and shipped with the pitman arm centered. I shortened the drag link equally on both sides until it fit. Did not take much! Drives incredible.

 

[rhc404]

According to the 1996 FSM the relay rod should be "approximately 1,090 mm" according to the installation section for the relay rod, while in the service data section it lists it as "approximately 1,080mm". Measurement is from the centers of the end holes.

 

[ryry263]

I started this project and made a few mistakes. First off I actually sheered my sector shaft in half so I started by trying to have the steering wheel lined up what I thought was center along with manually straightening the wheels by hand. I misread and didn’t make any matchmarks and removed the uni joint completely. As for removal and install of the box all went well. Also, the box was a rebuilt unit with a 105 shaft. And I centered the pitman arm makes with the shaft and eyeballed it parallel to the frame. Anyway my box started leaking from the adjustment but after a test drive immediately. I tightened the nut but steering is pretty much all over the place. Trying to avoid removing and sending it to get the preload reset. I tightened the adjustment screw a couple times but it still tracks all over the place mainly to the right but there was so many mishaps during the install that I don’t really know where to start. Might end up taking it to a shop and seeing if they can make some adjustments and get everything truly centered along with the box being close to the correct preload. Worst case the box will have to go back and get rebuilt as it’s still warrantied. If anybody has any tips or things to try first I’d appreciate it. Also, I replaced all tie rod ends and bushings have all been replaced in the last year or so. Thanks!