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Steering gearbox adjustment

Posted: Sat Sep 15, 2018 7:29 pm
by trebot
Have a '56 Continental, new purchase. The steering gearbox has a bit of play in it. Is there adjustment on the gearbox?

Re: Steering gearbox adjustment

Posted: Sun Sep 16, 2018 8:36 am
by mbigpops
No adjustment that I know of. Can you post a photo of the steering box ?

Can you describe what is happening in more detail ?

Mark

Re: Steering gearbox adjustment

Posted: Mon Sep 17, 2018 6:29 am
by Bilge Rat
The steering gear is made by company called Gemmer and they were a parts supplier to Ford and other car manufacturers back in the day. It is a standard worm gear and sector with bearings and bushings, nothing too complicated. There should be a screw and nut at one end with a star shaped lock washer. You can try turning the screw in to see if the play is reduced, but you really should disassemble the gear to look at the internals. Lack of lubrication can cause wear. I just rebuilt the one in my '53 Sportsman and most parts are still available from old Ford parts suppliers. You don't want this to be too tight as it could affect steering when you need it the most!

Most people refill with high pressure grease rather than heavy oil to eliminate leaks. Since we don't use our boats in freezing weather, the cold grease won't affect steering like in a car.

Re: Steering gearbox adjustment

Posted: Mon Sep 17, 2018 7:16 am
by Bilge Rat
This is the adjustment screw with a cap over the slotted screw. Remove the cap, remove the star lock washer to turn the screw.
IMG_0582.jpg