Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

I hope I am not misusing this forum to try and locate parts, but after removing and disassembling the steering box from my '39 Six, I have discovered that the cross shaft needs replacing and after trying the 'normal' Packard parts sources, I find this is not an available part. The side-thrust bearings have disintegrated and the play in the roller wheel is extreme; the obvious cause of my steering woes. Everything else in the box is fine - the worm gear, bushings bearings, spacers, etc., are all good, I just need to find a cross shaft. Does any body have, or know where I can get one??? I did press out the center pin of the cross shaft and if I could find new thrust bearings, I could reassemble it - problem is, there are no numbers on what's left of them and because they 'mate' with the roller wheel, I suspect they are non generic. Any help here would be hugely appreciated.... Thanks

Finding a cross shaft can be done, however finding a good one is the issue - most steering boxes have worn cross shafts. Fact.
However....thanks to Jim Wagnon, the link here illustrates the rebuild of the cross shaft, if you cannot follow, your machinist can.
packardinfo.com/xoops/html/modules/newbb ... at&order=ASC&type=&mode=0&start=210

Additionally, though I don't have the exact number, I do know of another fellow who brought his cross shaft to a machine shop and a week later picked it up with new bearings installed - and of course a hefty bill for adapting to new bearings...point being, it can be done, and will be better than a used shaft.