Rag joint (Steering Coupler)

[warrior24]

How do I replace the rag joint on 92 Ranger. I don't get any parts listed when I search autozone or checkers web site. I know it has one because I can see it and its torn. Is it called something else?

 

[Sasquatch_Ryda]

There's no rag joint on my 91...its a u joint steering shaft. I thought they changed over to the u joint style in either 89 or 90.

 

[warrior24]

here is a picture of it is that a rag joint or something else?

 

[Sasquatch_Ryda]

Nope, that IS a rag joint. that's kinda odd.

To find one you might have to go back to say an 87 or 88 to find a listing for one.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

I think the newer trucks have them too, it is probably one of those parts that the average parts guy won't have a clue what he is looking for, or possibly is dealer only. Napa doesn't even show one on their website for my truck and I know it has one.

Also check out the Help! section at your parts store, they are pretty good about having oddball stuff that neither you or the parts guy think is available.

 

[warrior24]

Thanks Sasquatch_Ryda and 85_Ranger4x4 for your help. Next time I go to checkers ill check and see if they have any idea what I am talking about. Maybe its only on there system not the internet one, although I think they are the same thing .

 

[Pistons23]

it might be a dealer only part. when i was looking for my lower steering shaft, i found out that none of regular part stores had it. found it at the dealer, but they wanted $180. ended up getting a used one. best bet is to find the part # and google it.

 

[2slow]

I seen one at the local Pepboys in the help section the last time I was there. If I understand correctly, you will have to drill out the rivets that are holding in the stock joint and replace them with the bolts included in the kit.

Doesn't list it for a ranger, but may work. I'm not sure if they are all the same size on Ford or not.

http://www.jegs.com/p/Borgeson/Borgeson-Rubber-Rag-Joint-Steering-Couplers/755269/10002/-1

This is the one I'm talking about. Third from the bottom in the link.

 

[warrior24]

I found one for like 11 bucks. I dont know if it fits yet but ill find out and let you guys know thur or friday I got the days off. I found them at checkers, where they have there universal type stuff window cranks, pcv valve gromet, special plastic clips. The brand name is "Help".

 

[Fast Doc]

I have the same truck with the same problem. Did you do the job yet? How did it go? How do you go about getting the old part out?

 

[warrior24]

working on it right now. Having trouble I disconnected it from the steering wheel shaft part but cant take it apart any further. I don't know how I am supposed to be able do drill the rivets out, as there is little room.

 

[Fast Doc]

I don't know either. Maybe if you can remove it compleatly or a right angle drill from Harbor Freight?

 

[warrior24]

Update I removed it there is a plastic shroud at the bottom of the shaft. I slid it up the shaft moving a part of the plastic that wraps around one of the metal power steering lines. Then there is one more bolt removed that and slid the whole rag joint assembly out. There are two rag joints. I am now working on drilling out the rivets.

 

[TrexMex]

You're in for a load of fun... I replaced my rag joint a while ago with the HELP thing... the only thing from the kit you'll be able to use is the actual joint and shims, you'll need to buy a 4 nut-bolt-washers set for each joint and discard the threaded dowels that come with the kit. I thought I had a post with pics but it seems I removed them... Seems you actually posted there 2 weeks ago, to answer your question, yes, you pretty much tear the thing apart, drill out the rivets and end up only with the shaft in 2 pieces, or 3 if you remove both joints. I'll see if I can find the pics and re-post them.

On other topic, where's Surprise AZ?

EDIT: No luck with the pics at my job's computer, will look for them when at home this evening.... (in case you are wondering why I don't just take new pics, I sold that truck 6 moths ago...)

 

[warrior24]

I ended up grinding the rivets down to like 1/16 of rivet left and used a metal punch and heavy hammer to tap out the rivet stud . I found this way easer to remove than drill the darn things out. I had to buy new bolts as well from lowes. I got the hardest grade they had grade 8 I think.

If I had to do this again it would take me 1hr at the most.