Purpose: This is a post to collect the different posts dealing with replacing, upgrading or converting the intermediate steering shaft on 82-92 F-Body.

Associated problems: Loose steering feel, play in steering (NOTE: this is not the only item that might cause these conditions)

This also deals with the use of the Astro Van steering shaft.
Hope all post to this message to help others.

https://www.thirdgen.org/techbb2/sho...hreadid=199902

https://www.thirdgen.org/techbb2/sho...ighlight=astro


https://www.thirdgen.org/techbb2/sho...ighlight=astro

https://www.thirdgen.org/techbb2/sho...ighlight=shaft

https://www.thirdgen.org/techbb2/sho...ighlight=shaft




History: The intermediate shaft on the F-body consists of two rubber and steel universal style joints. The rag joint is the joints nearest to the steering box and this “Rag Joint” is replaceable, though it involves the removal of rivets. On the other end of the shaft (steering wheel) is another joint which is non-serviceable or replaceable. The entire intermediate shaft in GM # ___________, which might not be available any longer. Dealer price was about $125.

WHAT I DID: I replaced the rag joint on my 88 IROC and had some improvement, after inspecting the upper (steering wheel side) joint, I notice a broken boot and slack.

I found an 1998 Safar(GMC) that had a intermediated steering shaft that look like it would work, it does, fit modification. NOTE: this shaft is slightly different then earlier Astro Van shafts.

The ASTRO shaft does have the following key points.
1. Steering wheel end of shaft attaches in the pinch method and not bolt thru D shaft retention.
2. Steering wheel end joint is 90 degrees of from necessary orientation, this requires removal of the ends and re-clocking 90 degrees (the hardest part)
3. This shaft is fully collapsible and skinner that stock, no plastic sleeve.
4. Upper joint might be replaced with a 4th Gen F-Body joint allowing the bolt thru D shaft retention method.

 

Part two; Add your info

 

Found this link browsing around while completeing my int. shaft replacement.

While not thirdgen specific it does have good pics, information, and details another way to construct it.

http://www.crankshaftcoalition.com/w...junkyard_parts