Steering Box adjustment

[fishboy]

I am trying to adjust my steering box but am having difficulty loosening the lock down nut. My spider is a 71 so has the 19mm. Regardless, does anyone know if it is regular thread (right tight) or reverse thread. I have tried to break free both ways without luck. It is VERY tight. Do I need to loosen the adjusting screw first? Thanks!

[azruss]

Been a long time since messing with that. I dont recall anything unusual about the locking nut. that adjustment just reduces free play in the center position.

[baltobernie]

Regular right-hand thread. Are you holding the adjustment screw stationary while attempting to unloosen the jam nut?

[fishboy]

Bernie,
Am I correct that I would loosen the jam nut by turning counter clockwise, Then turn adjustment screw clockwise to tighten wheel play? I was trying to use a socket wrench due to the location of the steering box and clearance issues.

[baltobernie]

Yes, you do loosen the big nut CCW, but if you're not holding the adjustment screw (actually, applying some opposite pressure) the nut won't loosen. That's why they call it a jam nut The socket ain't gonna cut it; you need a six-sided wrench. And yes, it is very cramped quarters. Many Fiasti have cut down or bent wrenches for this particular task.

[fishboy]

Looks like I will be buying and bending a wrench and a screwdriver to make this work! I don't remember having any problems with my '69 but that was some time ago. Thanks for the help!