Rag Joint replacement 101.

[buffalo]

:jump2refe Ok for starters Yes the rag joint is replaceable . no its not difficult.
no its not expensive. no witchcraft is not envolved.
tools needed -
- 3 beers- ( may vary ):drunkcheers:
- 7/16 socket-
- large flathead screwdriver -
- drill & bits - ( 11/32 )
- 4 grade 8 blots & nuts - ( i used 3/8 )
- blue Locktite -
- grease marker or white paint marker -
- 1/2 to 3/4 hour of time ( may very with beer )
IMG_0006.jpg (http://s10planet.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=4068&stc=1&d=1200172884)
this is the part I got from AutoZone for 10 bux
it comes with some hardwear ( chuck it )
remove the air cleaner assembly and disconect the batery.
remove the plastic cover from the lower end of the shaft ( this is where the rag joint is hiding.
mark the top of the joint on each peice ( it will help with reassembly).
lossen and remve the lock bolt at the base of the shaft ( dont lose it ).
use the big screwdriver to push the shaft twords the firewall untill it pops loose.
wiggle and pull on the shaft tawords the front of the front end untill it pulls
free.
now that the shaft is out you can get a good look at what you have .
you will now have to drill out the rivets holding it together and seperate the pices. ( dont lose any ).
here is the old one and the new one.
IMG_0008.jpg (http://s10planet.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=4069&stc=1&d=1200172884)
the new one is a little bigger in diamiter than the old but fits realy snug.
its also a bit thicker than the old one but hay its new.:)
IMG_0009.jpg (http://s10planet.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=4070&stc=1&d=1200172884)
reassembly is pretty straight forward -use the new nuts & bolts and the Locktite. keep it all inline ( you marked it Right ).:doh:
dont over tighten the new joint just goodntight ( german torque spec).
reinstall in truck bolt it back in ( put the plastic cover back on ).
put the air cleaner assembly back an and reconect the battery.
:2000-pont go for a cruise .

file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/ray/Desktop/IMG_0006.jpgfile:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/ray/Desktop/IMG_0006.jpg

[White-V-6-S-Ten]

By replacing this what does it do for the truck?
And why would you replace it? Meaning what are the symptoms of a bad rag joint? How would i know if mine was bad?
Thanks!

[White-V-6-S-Ten]

I have a lil slop in my steering wheel would this be my prob?
What are the symptoms of a bad rag joint>?

[Mikz86TA]

slop in the steering, visual inspection. They do look curvy when installed by nature tho.
What is the specs on that rag? bolt distance across center to center , outter diameter and center hole diameter.
THX

[buffalo]

quickest wat to diognose is to remove plastic cover from rag joint and have a freind move your steering wheel back and forth while you watch the joint for any play.:horse:

[Y NI Rider]

Nice!!
Great how to put together.
Kudos

[buffalo]

slop in the steering, visual inspection. They do look curvy when installed by nature tho.
What is the specs on that rag? bolt distance across center to center , outter diameter and center hole diameter.
THX

rag joint specs 1 7/8" across center, 2 1/2" outer diam. , 1" center hole.
hope that helps.
:horse:

[Mikz86TA]

THX