Rag Joint Pin Bumpers

[Leif A.]

I noticed that the pin bumpers were missing from my rag joint...I have new ones coming. My question is can I simply remove the two bolts holding the rag joint to the upper coupling on the steering shaft, loosen the upper coupling bolt and then slide the coupling up an inch or so and install the pin bumpers? Any suggestions appreciated. Merry Christmas to All.

[Leif A.]

Re: Rag Join Pin Bumpers

TTT...anyone??

[Gary R.]

Re: Rag Join Pin Bumpers

That should work. I don't recall if 67 had a collapsible column, if so you have to be careful you don't accidentally collapse it.

[Gene M.]

Re: Rag Join Pin Bumpers

Leif,
Yes, as questioned (Gary) the 67 is a collapsible column. I’ve seen so many 67’s without the bumpers or cushions (what ever they are called), that I really question if all were sent out the door with them. Think about they really don’t appear to serve any function.........?

[Leif A.]

Re: Rag Join Pin Bumpers

Leif,
Yes, as questioned (Gary) the 67 is a collapsible column. I’ve seen so many 67’s without the bumpers or cushions (what ever they are called), that I really question if all were sent out the door with them. Think about they really don’t appear to serve any function.........?

I completely concur Gene. However, it was mentioned this past October at the Lone Star Regional when it was last judged. Don't remember if they took a deduction or not. I had some other parts on my list from LIC, so I ordered the bumpers. Thought if it wasn't that big of a deal, I would install them. Possibly some shock/vibration control...although I have neither currently occurring. Thanks for your input, as always.

[Leif A.]

Re: Rag Join Pin Bumpers

That should work. I don't recall if 67 had a collapsible column, if so you have to be careful you don't accidentally collapse it.

Thanks Gary...appreciate your input.

[Richard M.]

Re: Rag Joint Pin Bumpers

Leif, If you wedge the split in the upper housing a bit with a small cold chisel, it'll move up the shaft splines easier.

[Leif A.]

Re: Rag Joint Pin Bumpers

Leif, If you wedge the split in the upper housing a bit with a small cold chisel, it'll move up the shaft splines easier.

Rich,
Are you meaning to tap the upper housing with a cold chisel after removing the two bolts?? When you say wedge, I think putting something between the upper housing and the actual "rag". Thanks for your input, as well.

[Gary R.]

Re: Rag Joint Pin Bumpers

The upper flange bolts to the rag. The flange is splined to the column, there is a split in the casting. The pinch bolts crimp the flange on the splines and many times they are on there tight. A shot of Kroil or Blast on the splines and a wedge into the split will spread the flange and break it loose from the column splines but you have to be careful not to apply a lot of force into the column end or it will collapse the column. As mentioned those bumpers really don't serve much of a function.

[Richard M.]

Re: Rag Joint Pin Bumpers

Rich,
Are you meaning to tap the upper housing with a cold chisel after removing the two bolts?? When you say wedge, I think putting something between the upper housing and the actual "rag". Thanks for your input, as well.

Leif, Gary explained it perfectly. You just want to open the coupler split a little to free it from the shaft spines a little.

[Leif A.]

Re: Rag Joint Pin Bumpers

The upper flange bolts to the rag. The flange is splined to the column, there is a split in the casting. The pinch bolts crimp the flange on the splines and many times they are on there tight. A shot of Kroil or Blast on the splines and a wedge into the split will spread the flange and break it loose from the column splines but you have to be careful not to apply a lot of force into the column end or it will collapse the column. As mentioned those bumpers really don't serve much of a function.

Crystal clear Gary...thank you. I probably won't mess with it right now. Put it off for when I get really bored. I truly appreciate your expert advice. Happy New Year.

[Leif A.]

Re: Rag Joint Pin Bumpers

Leif, Gary explained it perfectly. You just want to open the coupler split a little to free it from the shaft spines a little.

Rich,
Thank you for your follow-up. Appreciate your advice...as always. Happy New Year to you, as well.