My Willys 3A and 3B Community
3A, 3B, DJ Technical Knowledge Base => "Original"-- Technical Questions, Answers, Observations => Topic started by: Steve on December 07, 2013, 08:43:20 PM
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Any tips on removing the steering shaft from the gear box would be appreciated. Thanks.
Steve
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Hi Steve,
Is the gear box and steering assembly out of the Willys?� Are you trying to remove the long inner shaft from the gear box, and tube?� If so, you will need to remove the sector shaft first.
Remove the pitman arm.� Remove the gear box cover.� Pull the sector shaft out.� Loosen the tube clamp and remove the three bolts from the top of the gear box.� You can now pull the shaft.
Note:� There are ball bearings and races in there.� 11 bearings on top and 11 on the bottom of that worm gear portion of that shaft.
Are you rebuilding the steering?
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Thanks Yes, rebuilding. Jeep is in a zillion pieces at the moment. Have done all the stuff that you listed with the steering box, but the shaft doesn't want to come out easily. .
Steve
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I remember it being a problem for me. I know I had to mess with moving the steering gear arm and shaft and lever in and out quite a bit to get it free. I did not take them apart to do it though.
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Well, the bearing race at the top could be your culprit. That is about the only thing that can hold it in. It may be seized if the box is a little rusty. Tap it from the top side a few times with a drift or punch. It should break free.
Or, it you are replacing it, beat the crap out of it. ;) You won't hurt the shaft or the gear box.
Tim
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Tim,
I think you are correct. I suspect that the race will require some persuasion (beating the crap out).
Steve