Does any one know why the 1956 olds equipped with power steering had a "rag joint" in the column ? The manual steering doesn't have them. I am considering a conversion using an electric power steering pump. I then then remembered that a used power steering column I had acquired years ago had a rag joint in it. I don't see any reason unless it might be to off set any stress to the power steering box created by flex between body and frame. Any thoughts appreciated. Thanks, Chuck

 

The manual steering gears back then incorporated the steering column and steering box as one unit .
The power steering units had a separate column and steering box connected by a "rag" joint .




I think the reason is so that the steering box could be removed easier for servicing .

 

That makes perfect sense, sometimes I overlook the obvious. Chuck

 

I don't know about 56 but the 54 and 55 power steering did not use a rag joint. The steering shaft went all the way up to the steering wheel.

 

Lucky for me and you we have convertibles and removing a wheel with the top down is a breeze. Sorta speak...... Tedd