The Ford Barn - View Single Post - Do I need a new worm in the steering box?

john charlton · 06-12-2018, 01:18 PM

I have changed several 2 tooth worms over the years without using a press (which I dont have) . I put the shaft in a good heavy vice and wrap a piece of light cardboard around it so the shaft is not marked .(I suppose it doesnt really matter if it is) I heat the worm with the handheld propane torch,it does not need to be smokin hot . I use a brass drift and the worm will punch off . Rotate the drift to avoid bending the shaft although I doubt you could bend it with a drift . At first it is reluctant to move but once the worm is on the move it will come off,you might have to reheat . To install the worm it will go on easier than taking off . I do heat the worm a bit . Be sure to put the worm on the right way round or it will not go fully home . There is a relief bored in one end that is the end that goes on first . I use a fairly hefty brass or copper headed hammer ( called the "copper bopper" ! ) Hit it squarely so not to damage the end race .Use eye protection

John in cool summer evening Suffolk County England ..

06-12-2018, 01:18 PM	#21
john charlton Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Posts: 1,304	Re: Do I need a new worm in the steering box? I have changed several 2 tooth worms over the years without using a press (which I dont have) . I put the shaft in a good heavy vice and wrap a piece of light cardboard around it so the shaft is not marked .(I suppose it doesnt really matter if it is) I heat the worm with the handheld propane torch,it does not need to be smokin hot . I use a brass drift and the worm will punch off . Rotate the drift to avoid bending the shaft although I doubt you could bend it with a drift . At first it is reluctant to move but once the worm is on the move it will come off,you might have to reheat . To install the worm it will go on easier than taking off . I do heat the worm a bit . Be sure to put the worm on the right way round or it will not go fully home . There is a relief bored in one end that is the end that goes on first . I use a fairly hefty brass or copper headed hammer ( called the "copper bopper" ! ) Hit it squarely so not to damage the end race .Use eye protection John in cool summer evening Suffolk County England ..