Yes the output shaft is splined. And if you have
any play it magnifies itself until at the steering
wheel you can get quite a bit of free play. If you
still have space in the split clamp, tighten away.
I got mine so there is less than 1/8 inch free play
before the accident.
If you need to remove the U-clamp, here's how
(1) Remove the clamshell around the steering
column. If necessary remove the horn ring
any look into the column. Turn the wheel
until the slot in the column is straight down.
Your front wheels should be straight ahead.
If not move the steering wheel until it points
the wheels straight ahead. You will correct
the steering wheel position later.
Now get some white out, and mark the
output shaft and the extension so they go
back as before.
(3) Loosen and move the lower bolt that passes
through the output shaft and the extension. this
bolt must be out. If it won't slide out easily
remove the nut and wait until after step 5 and
try again. Remove the nut of the bolt going
through the extension upper joint.
(4) go under the dash and remove the two bolts
from the steering shaft support. Careful and
don't short anything.
(5) undo the bolt on the clamp on the left wheel well
holding the steering shaft. You should then be able to
move the shaft including the extension back a bit.
Remove the lower bolt if you failed in step 3.
(6) With a slight twisting back on the output steering column
maneuver and slide the extension off the output shaft.
(7) Slide the extension off the steering column.
On reassembly make sure the white out mark are lined up.
Now is the time to check that alignment. With the wheels
straight ahead, the slot in the column must point straight
down. Rotate the column until this is so. This means that
you will have to readjust the turn signal cancel. This
procedure insures you will an equal number of steering
wheel turns from straight ahead to full lock left or right.
If the steering wheel is not level, remove it a reposition
it.
NOTE you have not bothered the wheel alignment.
Also if you have not done so in some time replace the
steering joints with those that zerk fittings (try SS).
There is also an excellent article about rebuilding your
steering column in the tech tips. But this will disable
your car.
Dave Johnson, B382002668(under repair) Aurora, IL
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