OK, there is a bolt and nut that goes through the steering shaft about halfway between the knuckle where it attaches to the rack and the firewall. Anybody understand why its there? I can't see how the shaft assembly as a whole would come apart if that bolt and nut were removed (and that joint spot welded)... say for a header interference problem Let me know what you guys think...

Thanks,
Bill

 

Take that bolt out and push towards the firewall - you'll see how it will come apart.

 

And if you spot weld it together then you have one more thing to deal with when you need to take it apart to replace it when it starts rattling and driving you nuts. The new shaft is suppose to "fix" the problem for good, but only time will tell. There are several brands of headers that fit by the shaft just fine with the bolt in it.

 

Does the "new shaft" eliminate the bolt... or do I have the new shaft already?
Thanks

 

would this help you out?

http://www.borgeson.com/TruckProductChevy.htm

 

Thanks grippy. I talked with Romeo there at Borgeson. I am going to send him a pic and see what he can do for me.

Bill

 

sorry but i just don't see the piont in removing this bolt i have never seen a header hit this bolt nor have i seen a problem with this bolt.and if you spot well it it will melt the liner inside.

sorry just don't understand this one

 

I do have a custom header that does interfere with the bolt. It is part of a turbo kit. The header is made out of Schedule 40 304L and has been coated... so its not like I can take a hammer to it. I have spot welded the shaft. The company that grippy referred to may be able to help by fabbing a custom steering shaft that does not require that bolt... we'll see

Bill

 

good deal brother, glad I could help

 

flaming river makes one now thats a one-piece. doesn't have the joint in the middle. it's called an EZ-fit steering shaft.