[TR] TR3A steering box questions

[Randall]

> Does anyone have the torque values for the cover and end plate bolts?

As I recall, those are 5/16 bolts, so 13 ftlb should do.

> Speaking of torque values; is there a source document that 
> has all values for the car?

I don't believe the factory ever gave torque values for every fastener, only
the ones they considered unusual or important. 

> When I disassembled the box, there was no gasket on the end 
> plate though the maintenance and parts manuals show one. Do 
> the shims seal sufficiently, or should I put in a gasket?

I would suggest a gasket.  Since your box has obviously been apart before,
IMO you should also set the endplay with a dial indicator.  Add shims until
you can measure some endfloat, then subtract shims equal to the measured
value (or .001"-.002" more).

Enco usually has a dial indicator set on sale for under $20.  Although it's
a rarely used tool, IMO it's worth buying even if all you ever do is rebuild
the steering box with it.  The part number changes with every sale though,
so go to 
http://www.use-enco.com
and click on "Hot Deals", then "Measuring Tools", then "Enco Dial Indicators
& Point Sets".  Look for the set that includes a magnetic base.  The point
set isn't necessary for most jobs (including the steering box), but for $2 I
bought one anyway.  So this month's part number is RN625-1340.

Randall