Hi All - looking for insight on replacing steering coupler on 71 Supreme. Thinking I can pull the steering column back a bit to get clearance by loosening it inside ?

TIA

 

I think it would be easier to loosen the steering box if you need some slack. Three bolts.

 

There is a "T" slip joint near the master cylinder. No need to loosen anything.

 

Thank you guys for the insight. I didn't want to loosen the steering box, I had a horrible time getting it all aligned when I replaced it a while back. I tried the T joint but it didn't seem to do much. I was able to easily loosed the two 3/8 inch bolts under the dash, and the four bolts that keep the column in place and slip the column back enough. As i suspected, the teeth on the coupler are shot. I noticed the ground wires on the coupler. What does that do ?

Thanks... TP

 

Beep beep.

 

ahh - thank you ! That makes sense of course, now that you mention it.

 

Be sure you get the right size coupler fitting - I believe there are 3/4 and 13-16" diameter spline openings (I believe older model GM boxes use the larger spline and maybe 80's-up the smaller one?) - I may have that backwards though...

I replaced mine recently when upgrading to a new Lee steering box with the larger input spline for my '72 Cutlass ragtop

 

yes - thank you. I saw that when ordering the part. So I ordered both and figure I'll return the incorrect one. One came in today ( not sure which one it was) and it was the correct one so it is already installed. It was already dark by the time I finished, so I'll test drive tomorrow. Really hope this fixes the sloppy steering. I should have replaced this when I did the steering box, but I was low on $$$.

 

I'm doing the same on my 71. I got the Lares 201 coupler for my rebuilt box. Got the parts removed today and need another hour or so and I'll be on the road.

Tpaul- I hope that fixes your sloppy feel.