VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND NEWER 1949-1954 how hard to rebuild steering box?

Last weekend I think I adjusted the steering box. I had over half a turn of "free play" in the steering wheel. When I purchased the car the owner said that the steering box needed to be rebuilt. I have the shop manual and followed it. When I looked at the sector adjuster it looked like it had some threads left to it. So I disconnected the pittman arm from the- I cant remember the name- possibly steering linkage? and first adjusted the worm bearing taking out the play and then adjusted the sector. the steering now feels alright, but possibly a bit lumpy. Was that the reason why the previous owner had half a turn of play in the steering wheel so he would not damage an already worn out box? I want to make sure when I take the car on the road I dont harm myself or others. How hard is it to rebuild a steering box? I'd rather rebuild it myself so I know how things work, and of course, it costs less. I have access to an auto shop, but no help. Also once this is done how do you adjust the steering wheel so it is in the 12 o'clock position when the wheels are straight ahead, currently it is in the 4 o'clock position. Last things, since I am probably asking basic questions what is a good book that could be a good supplement to this chat room. Also what can I use for steering box lubricant, also any pointers on removal and repair of gas tanks?

thanks again!
51' Steve

From what you describe the steering gear will need rebuilding.Its necessary to remove the gear and column from the car to do this.Seeing you have a Chevrolet shop manual it should be no problem.The only tool you may need is a pitman arm puller.There is a step by step description in the manual for removing the gear.It involves some work but nothing technical.The three things that you will probably be needing is a pitman shaft (it will come with a new bushing and seal if kit is complete),The steering worm shaft-which extends up to the steering wheel, and the two steering thrust bearings that are on each side of the worm.(commercial here-I have a new pitman shaft and also think I have the bearings)--These parts will all need to be removed from the gear and inspected.

What to put in the gear.Chassis grease will work but too heavy.Gear oil such as SAE 90 will work but will leak past an old seal.A mixture of the two will be great.At the present time your gear is probably empty.You could remove the plug and fill it with SAE 90 or 140 if you can find it (600 is better-Model A vendors and The Filling Station carry it).This will run into the bearings and soften the old grease etc..It may help.May also leak out so place some cardboard under the car to avoid mess.This is only a temporary trial to attempt to lube the old bearings.Use heavier grease if you rebuild it.Also if the adjustments are a little to tight it can make the lumpy feel worse.

To center the steering wheel the connecting rod between the pitman arm and idler arm is shortened or lengthned.The ends turn on the threaded center rod to do this.First its important to have the steering gear in the dead center straight ahead position to do this.(and to correctly adjust the steering gear).There is a mark on the steering shaft under the horn button that must be UP straight to center the gear.The end of the shaft is seen in the center of the nut that holds the steering gear.

The most important book to have would be a 1951 Chevrolet shop manual-not a Motors Manual etc.Its the only complete manual.

Gas tank can be drained with plug on bottom.Loosen strap nuts and drop.Disconnect wires and line.Use P B Blaster on all threads.
Many radiator shops can repair gas tanks.Also some places the specalize in tank repairs-such as "gas tank renew"-If your in a larger city check phone book.

Restoration Supply Company sells Penrite steering box lub.e which is a good choice. I use it and no leaking. http://www.restorationstuff.com

I rebuilt my 41 steering box. Only hard part was getting the box and shaft out with the car just on jack stands in the driveway. (I'd remove the whole column if I had to do over!)

Chevs of the 40s and Filling Station sell rebuild parts.

If you have to change boxes try a 54 box with 49 gears: Roller bearings and a 17:1 ratio, quicker and slightly heavier, but better working in all aspects.