Replace the steering coupler (rag joint) connecting the steering column to the steering gear box on a 1970 AMC Rebel Machine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Steering coupler (rag joint) × 1 — Use OEM specification or aftermarket equivalent for 1970 AMC
• Coupler bolt hardware kit × 1 — May be included with coupler

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and set parking brake firmly
2. Chock rear wheels securely
3. Center the steering wheel and front wheels in straight-ahead position
4. Disconnect negative battery cable to prevent accidental airbag deployment issues (not applicable to 1970 model, but prevents horn activation)
5. Raise front of vehicle with floor jack and support on jack stands at frame rails
6. Allow engine and exhaust components to cool completely if vehicle was recently driven

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the steering coupler
   Position yourself under the vehicle with adequate lighting. Locate the steering coupler where the steering column shaft connects to the steering gearbox input shaft. This is typically found just above the gearbox near the frame rail on the driver side. Clean the area of dirt and debris for better visibility and access.
2. 2

   Mark alignment positions
   Before removing any components, use white paint marker or chalk to mark the alignment relationship between the steering column shaft, the coupler, and the steering gearbox input shaft. Make marks on both the shaft and coupler at each connection point. This ensures proper reassembly and maintains steering wheel centering.
3. 3

   Apply penetrating oil
   Spray penetrating oil on all coupler bolt threads and allow to soak for 10-15 minutes. The 1970 AMC hardware may be rusted or corroded. Focus on the pinch bolts or clamp bolts that secure the coupler to both shafts.
4. 4

   Remove upper coupler fasteners
   Using the appropriate wrench or socket, loosen and remove the bolt(s) securing the upper portion of the steering coupler to the steering column shaft. On AMC applications, this is typically a pinch bolt through the coupler clamp. Support the coupler as you remove fasteners to prevent it from falling.
5. 5

   Remove lower coupler fasteners
   Remove the bolt(s) securing the lower portion of the steering coupler to the steering gearbox input shaft. This may require working around exhaust components or frame members. Use extensions and universal joints on your ratchet as needed for access.
6. 6

   Remove old steering coupler
   With all fasteners removed, slide the old coupler off the steering shafts. If the coupler is stuck, gently tap it with a rubber mallet or carefully pry with a flathead screwdriver. Inspect the splines on both the column shaft and gearbox input shaft for wear, damage, or elongation. Check for excess play or deformation.
7. 7

   Prepare new coupler
   Unpack the new steering coupler and inspect for any shipping damage. Verify that it matches the old coupler design and that all mounting hardware is included. Check that the coupler fabric or rubber disc is in good condition with no tears or deterioration.
8. 8

   Install new coupler on gearbox shaft
   Slide the new coupler onto the steering gearbox input shaft first, aligning the flat spots or splines. Position it according to your alignment marks made during disassembly. Do not fully tighten fasteners yet, just start the bolt(s) finger-tight to hold position.
9. 9

   Connect coupler to column shaft
   Carefully align the upper portion of the coupler with the steering column shaft, matching your alignment marks. Slide the coupler onto the column shaft, ensuring proper spline engagement. The coupler should slide on with moderate resistance but not require excessive force.
10. 10

    Install and tighten upper fasteners
    Install the upper pinch bolt or clamp bolt through the coupler and steering column shaft. Verify alignment marks are still matched. Tighten the fastener securely. Since no torque specification is provided in the database, tighten the fastener firmly to eliminate any play while being careful not to overtighten and strip threads or crack the coupler. Apply thread-locking compound if desired.
11. 11

    Install and tighten lower fasteners
    Tighten the lower coupler fastener(s) at the gearbox input shaft connection. Again verify alignment marks remain matched. Tighten securely to eliminate all play in the connection. The coupler should be firmly clamped to both shafts with no movement.
12. 12

    Verify coupler installation
    Check that all fasteners are tight and that the coupler has no visible gaps at either connection point. Attempt to rotate the steering column shaft by hand while observing the coupler and gearbox input shaft - they should move together as one unit with no slop or binding. The flexible portion of the coupler should be centered between the two shafts.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect negative battery cable if disconnected
2. Remove jack stands and lower vehicle to ground
3. Remove wheel chocks

Verification

• Start the engine and verify power steering operation is normal with no unusual noises
• Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock while stationary and confirm smooth operation with no binding or unusual sounds from the coupler area
• Verify steering wheel is still centered when front wheels are straight ahead
• Test drive the vehicle at low speed in a safe area and confirm steering response is immediate with no dead spot or play at the steering wheel
• After test drive, re-inspect all coupler fasteners to ensure they remain tight
• Check for any rubbing or interference between the coupler and surrounding components throughout the steering range

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