I've been doing some reading on how to replace the steering coupling rag joint on my 2.9 V6 92' Ranger XLT. I read one method is to disconnect the steering gear.
Another said all you have to do is remove the coupling bolts and pull out the rag disc assembly without disconnecting anything else. Which one is correct?

It's the steering coupling assembly closest to the steering gear

 

It would be easier to remove the entire shaft but IIRC the gear box side is just removing the 4 bolts.

 

When you say 'remove the four bolts,' you mean the four bolts for the steering coupling rag joint? Do I have to remove the steering gear?

 

Yes. Just the bolts. But I think it might be a tight fit so it should be easier to remove the shaft and replace the rag joint on the bench. It has been a long time but I remember doing it this way and was much easier.

 

Hey Rock,

Funny you mentioned this method. Just today, it occurred to me that I could probably just remove the pinch bolts near the firewall and at steering gear at opposite end. Then remove entire intermediate shaft (or whatever correct terminology is)

You were trying to tell me this before. But apparently, I didn't make the connection.

Then do bench repair like you say. I agree. Sounds easier. But will I have difficulty removing the shaft as one unit?

 

Steering coupling rag joint is replaced

 

Good news. Was it easy?

 

It wasn't easy because it was the first time I worked on the steering shaft. I just removed the pinch bolts at both ends of the lower steering shaft. The shaft has this rubber flex boot and it compressed inward on itself. Then I just popped it out and did a bench repair.

I needed to make a couple trips to find the right hardware also. But now I have a major power steering leak. I suspect the repair put stress on a steering gear seal and finished it off. I'll have to look underneath tonight. I posted on that separately.

Thanks,
Dave

 

I'm monitoring this to see if I fixed the leak. I'll follow up in several days.

 

I was able to close the leak about 95%. I gently bolted in the pressure hose fitting snugly till it stopped. I might tighten the fitting nut a little more. But when you start messing with it, the leak tends to re-open.

It's a poor design anyway. But I have completely operational power steering. I am thankful for that. So maybe I should leave it alone. We can close out the discussion unless anyone wants to add anything.

 

Any update? Still doing good?

 

Still doing good. Loose, sloppy steering is gone. Power steering works fine.

I might tighten that pressure hose fitting nut another 1/4 turn or less. Or maybe just leave it alone and monitor it.

 

This is resolved