G'day Jeepers,

I'm sure you have seen my other posts so you are aware I am working on my steering. Last nights drama was getting the pitman arm off, which was successful.

Part II last night was the beginning stages of the Power Steering Box removal in preparation for the new one.

After work today I am going to pick up my new Power Steering Box to go along with my new drop pitman, and complete new assembly from knuckle to pitman.

I have all bolts loosened/removed, but I can't get the steering shaft disconnected from the box. I loosened the compression style bolt and clamp and spread it open a good bit. Should I remove this clamp/bolt entirely? If so, is there a corresponding snap ring or something that holds her in place?

I purchased the Jeep CJ Rebuild Manual from Bentley Publishing (1972-1986 CJ's). It's a great manual for all aspects of taking care of business, but unfortunately, itÆs really soft in this area and does not cover much.

Any help is greatly appreciated and I offer my thanks in advance.

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You must remove that clamp bolt entirely, not just loosen it. The shaft under the bolt is relieved to make room for the bolt, and if you don't remove the bolt, you will never get the shaft off of the steering box.

The same thing applies to the clamp bolt at the upper end of the lower steering shaft.


BTW, if you can afford it, I'd recommend replacing the OEM steering shaft with a unit made by Borgeson. They have needle-bearing u-joints at each end, and the shaft's length is adjustable over a range of about 6 inches. Just the thing if one has a body lift.

Good luck.

Bob used the word "relieved" Meaning the bolt sits in a groove and unless the bolt is completely out and sitting on your bench it ain't gonna come apart.
Big Jim <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/pfft.gif" alt="" />

Thanks for all the guidance fella's.

I completely removed the bolt and with a little help and a few good whacks, I managed to get it all apart.

I spent the weekend prep'ing/cleaning/wire-brushing/and painting all the new steering components. I installed the new power steering box and everything else yesterday. The front end components now have a new coat of flat black paint and Energy Suspension busings to go along with all the new goodies.

To night I'm going to bleed the power steering system and start putting on the rest of the ES components including the body mounts.

You'll be hearing back from me.

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