47 Hudson steering gear box questions.

Lklemm1

Putting my 47 pickup back together and have some questions. My gear box has one small hole and 2 larger one. Am I missing a sleeve or a bushing in theses holes. Or is this just normal and bolt right up? Does anyone know what size the nut is that holds the pitman arm on? Is 80/90 gear lube ok to use to refill the box? It's been awhile since I took it apart and can't remember what it looked like.

Frankvintagefullflowcom

I believe that the small hole is intended to accurately position the box on the frame and the other, larger ones allow for some "adjustment" of the mounting angle to match cab-to-frame variations. When you install it, leave the bolts loose enough to allow the column to find its "sweet spot" and, of course, don't forget to tighten them when the time comes.

Unless someone beats me to it, I'll check on that nut size/thread for you asap.

The 80-90 gear oil is fine unless you have a leaky seal (duh!) and now is the time to replace it if you haven't already done so. There has been some discussion lately regarding the lubricant and it has been suggested that you use the NLGI #0 "Corn Head Grease" available at most tractor supply stores. It's said to reduce or eliminate leakage but may not be necessary with a new seal, of course.

F

Frankvintagefullflowcom

Regarding the cross-shaft/pitman arm nut, the HMC p/n is 22641 (a very old number, indeed!) and applies to all Hudson built cars/trucks from at least 1927 on through '54. It isn't even superseded for the '48 to '54 parts book.

So....It's a 7/8-14 UNF nut with a 1-7/16 hex, an eighth inch larger hex than the standard heavy hex nut or jamb nut. So, if you are absolutely in need of a "correct" nut it may be difficult to find except from a Hudson guy. If you don't mind the 1-5/16" hex, use a fine threaded jamb nut instead. It will work just fine and should be used with the  7/8ths in., heavy split-lock washer as was the original.

Frank