Re: seven tooth steering shaft

Posted by Robert Carabbio on February 03, 1997 at 22:00:12

In Reply to: seven tooth steering shaft
posted by Wade Ingrham on February 03, 1997 at 16:57:58

What is apparently worn on yours are the bearing surfaces that the steering shaft bushings ride on. I'm assuming that the worm is O.K (maybe a large assumption).
The shaft can be resurfaced in the worn areas by welding, then turned down (and ideally ground)to the original diameter and installed with new bushings. If you can't find someone to grind it for you, in a pinch the rod can be brought down to a tight fit in the bushings by turning and finished with garnet paper to create a good bearing surface.
Since the thrust bearings are between the worm and the bushing area, there's space to mask the worm to prevent splatter during the welding. Be careful not to get the worm too hot. The alternative is to find a good used unit at a swap meet (it happens).
If you have access to or know of a sympathetic machine shop the restoration of the shaft shouldn't be too difficult. Possibly the folks in the local "A" club can help.

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