gearbox adjusting?

[flyn A]

Is there a way to adjust play in the steering gearbox on my henry j? Thanks, Andy

[joefrazer]

Yes, it can be adjusted. First, remove the nut (it's actually a cap) and the star washer from the top of the steering box. That will expose a slotted screw. Tighten that screw to where it feels snug but not too tight. Then, turn it back 1/8 turn. Replace the washer and cap. That should help reduce play.

[flyn A]

Thank you for your response.  Andy

[boatingbill]

I was shown a slightly different way many years ago and it has worked for me. Tighten the screw 1/8
turn and then hold screw in that position with screwdriver and tighten lock nut. Drive car around the
block and check for play. Repeat this until steering feels slightly "snug" meaning that as you turn a
corner, the steering will return to center position with little or no effort. I just did this on my '51
Kaiser a few months ago and know that it is the same for other makes, not just KF products.

[joefrazer]

On the big cars, you can also adjust the center link where it attaches to the frame. Turn that nut/bolt in one turn and it'll snug your steering too.

[boatingbill]

JoeFrazer: Good idea. The first procedure mentioned removes play in the steering wheel by
adjusting the steering sector box and the second procedure adjusts for play in the steering
linkage. Both should be done.

[retired wrench]

I  would jack up the front end and adj. till I could feel a slight drag while passing the straight ahead position. This can best be felt by grasping a front wheel at 9 oclock and 3 and turning from side to side.