P/S shaft pot coupler

[old guys rule]

63 Dodge B model 440. Rebuilt the steering pot coupler and I feel the thing is sloppy and untrustworthy. Anyone had problems with these?

 

[66 Sat]

If it's the same design as the 66 then maybe the shoes are in the wrong way and need to be turned 90 degrees?

 

[Montclaire]

If it's the same design as the 66 then maybe the shoes are in the wrong way and need to be turned 90 degrees?

That was my first thought as well. The coupler body may also be worn from age, especially if allowed to operate dry for long periods.

 

[old guys rule]

thanks guys, I'll give that a look

 

[old guys rule]

It's been years since I rebuilt it. Actually I don't understand it's purpose and how it accomplishes it. Any volunteers? As I recall the unit's design, even in good working order, seemed poorly up to the task even though I didn't understand it's purpose nor how it does it's job. I don't care for that as I am unable to evaluate the assemblies strength, long term durability and dependability. I had seriously considered subing a flaming river U-joint but a tech tip in the Aug Mopar Action mag claims this would lead to trashing the upper steering column bearing and rubber insulator. What's the answer for durability, safety and reliability?

 

[Montclaire]

It's a plunge coupler. It's designed the way it is to accommodate chassis flex inherent in the unibody. If you swap to a u-joint, that flex is transmitted elsewhere and causes premature wear of other parts like the upper bearing.

 

[MoparLeo]

Durability ? Your car is a 1963 ? Lets see 10,20,30,40,50-55 years...

 

[Montclaire]

Exactly. Check the coupler body for wear grooves. Mine was pretty bad due to popped top and headers for a couple decades.