1962 steering gearbox replacement

[Edward Kenny]

The steering gearbox is leaking fluid in my 1962 CDV, and I'd like to replace it myself. Is there anything this amateur mechanic (meaning me) needs to know before I consider starting this project?

Thanks in advance for the due diligence.

[35-709]

Most folks with mechanical ability eventhough they are amateurs can tackle a job like that with the '62 Cadillac shop manual at their side.  If you already have a manual, read and become familiar with the procedure.  If you don't, they are easy to get and cheap on eBay Motors ---
http://www.ebay.com/sch/6000/i.html?_nkw=1962+Cadillac+shop+manual&_rdc=2

Scroll down, you will find several in the $30 to $50 range.  Original preferred, reprints OK but sometimes the illustrations aren't quite as good and clear.  I would be all over that hardcover edition for $50, but I really don't need it.  Owning the appropriate shop manual is a no-brainer IMO, especially for an amateur like me.

[Scot Minesinger]

I agree, even if you don't have a puller they are available at low cost at any auto-parts store.  It usually only goes together one way and you this prevents the steering wheel from being in a 1:00 or 11:00 o'clock position when finished.  If your car is low mileage and you have the time, get the one you have re-built, as the quality of the re-build is dependent upon the core to some extent.

[quadfins]

The labor to actually replace it is not particularly difficult. Access to a lift is very helpful, as it makes getting to and from the mountings much easier. That box is very heavy, and is awkward to lift into position, hold in place, and start the bolts back in while you are lying on the floor with the car at ground level.
Jim

[Edward Kenny]

I do indeed have the shop manual for the car. As I read about the gearbox removal, I cannot help but be a bit intimidated by the process of disconnecting the Pitman arm from the gearbox. Any time I see that there was a specific tool listed in the shop manual (as there is in the Pitman arm disconnect process), I get antsy about starting a project. I can't help but think that I'll mess up the steering if I reconnect it improperly.

[Glen]

The motto of an amateur mechanic, “I can do this if I just have one more tool”. 

The pitman arm puller is also available at most parts stores and is cheaper than having a pro do the job. 

Just keep in mind that gear box is heavy so be prepared for it.  Otherwise it is not a hard job. 

[Dan LeBlanc]

I think that once you get under the car, you'll find that it's a lot easier than it looks in the manual.

3, maybe 4 (I can't remember from the last time I did one) holding the steering box to the frame, the pitman arm and rag joint, hoses, and you're done. 

It's not that bad of a job.  Like others have said, it's a heavy box so it would be good if you had an assistant for five minutes to start the bolts into the new box while you held the box in place. 

["Cadillac Kid" Greg Surfas 15364]

Edward,
The only "trick" to a successful steering gear box replacement is being sure the box, the steering wheel and the wheels are centered exactly when you hook everything up.  If however you are a little off, the off center steering wheel can be corrected (suggest you use a professional) by tye rod adjustment.
Greg Surfas