Recently purchaced 1992 Camaro 305 rs for my daughter. 200k + miles, steering wheel has tons of play. I can see the play in rag joint. I'm sure box is sloppy too since this car spent a few years with 24's before I save it.
My question: The coupler for this model has the joint and shaft attached. Discontinued through GM, aftermarket is scattered with universal kits. Part # 7831239/ 7830094 unable to locate though web. Could I possibly take an 88-89 column (to maintain VAT) and swap this in. I'm also interested in removing the airbag, the inflater light is on and steering wheel is shedding skin, so this year swap seams perfect. Has anyone done this?

 

Welcome to TGO, B.W.T.

Many members eliminate the rag joint by swapping in a Jeep or Astro Van steering shaft.

https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/susp...ing-shaft.html

JamesC

 

That's a great post an option. I really would like to investigate the idea of an earlier Z28/ IROC column though. I really hate the Airgag steering wheel. Plus a tilt would be prefered.
Has anyone considered or performed? Is it worth it or should existing one just be modified and be done with it?

 

I've replaced rubber couplers enough times to say: just go right to a u-joint solution. I just picked up an Astro van shaft which I'll re-clock 90deg. and use in my daily driver.

My stock steering box @ 230k+ miles was "just fine" according to the local place that rebuilt it for me.

Columns are a pretty straightforward swap Stay away from 82 or 83; those probably will have different wiring for the wiper / cruise systems.

 

If you currently have a tilt column you could go with the Jeep or Astro shaft, and then buy her a sweet looking Billet wheel.

 

Great info!

 

This post also has info on part#s from Flaming River for new parts. I did this ona few vehicles and works great even though someone int he post had issues in trying to figure his out- both of mine went on fine and work great
https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/susp...ml#post5399921

I just updated that post with some info to bring it current.

I listed in there some advice for people NOT to buy the Rag Joint Eliminator aluminum disc kit from Unbalanced Engineering- they bind and work like crap. Waste of money.

 

Thanks for all the response. We'll see which vehicles are available to scavage from

 

Purchaced Astro Van shaft. Not even sure of year at all. Installed: firewall side was clocked slighly off (don't care, will just remove steering wheel) and also grinding small notch in camaro steering shaft (body side of car) to use collared bolt from Astro shaft. Seems to work just fine. Definately took up some slack. Will probably still replace steering box.

The junk yard did have a 92' Camaro with a good condition rag joint. Did not buy it but may return to purchace.

Another ?, highjack my own post. What is considered excessive bearing movement in shaft at firewall. Slight movement felt but unclear if an issue. If it was on the front wheels, I would repack bearings. This may be normal.

 

The Astro shaft should be reclocked 90 degrees. You won't be able to adjust the steering wheel significantly.

JamesC

 

Help would be greatly appreciated i have an 86 iroc 305 tpi im trying to remov the steering shaft ,I have it seperated from the box and column but there are metal lines running around and is too tight to get either end through. Can someone tell me how to get it out before i end up causing damage trying to figure it out thanks in advance

 

Can you post a picture? If it is 100% disconnected (free) it should come right out. You can use a pry bar in the end of the shaft to get it compress one end loose.

 

Well i tryd to post one but my phone is too old i may be able tomorrow but im sure its copletely off its just laying in there free but the 3 little metal line make it to wear if i pull it towards the fire wall the wide end of the plastic case wont fit and the joint\boot wont fit when i pull the other way the lines just dont give me enough wiggle room

 

^^^^^^^^^

 

I assume the lines and brake lines. If so, gently bend them.

JamesC

 

i got it the lines were stubborn and didnt wanna bend but enough tuggin got out , hopefully new one goes in easier i appreciate the help and any idea where to get a new one good price and quality and will it make difference getting a new one instead of a used one?

 

its worth the investment of getting the "newer" astro or jeep shafts. i have my old one kicking around the garage. was gonna toss it. isnt worn but up for grabs for the cost of shipping.

 

I dug mine out of an Astro van at a pick and pull for less than $10. Though used it looked brand new. I'd recommend going that route.

JamesC

 

does it require welding to modifie it? I have no expirence at all and can not think of anyone i know off the top of my head tho i may be able to find someone

 

if it requires moding and im not able to do i will deff get back to you on paying the shipping on that

 

I simply took mine to a machine shop and told them what I wanted. A substitute would be the Jeep shaft. Check my first link for instructions.

JamesC

 

ok igot plenty of them where im at ill give that a try. is there any ups to the jeep or astro shaft that u know of like safer, better handling , less noise that you know of