70 Rag Joint

[Lee McGlamery]

Hi - I am replacing the rag joint on my 70 and ordered a reproduction rag assembly (steering box side) from Paragon. It appears to be identical to the original with the exception of the bolts and the ground that goes between the bolt and rivet mounted stud. No problem on the bolts because I will use the bolts from my original joint but there is no way to install a copper ground strip. I read the threads on rag joints and saw a comment from Patrick that implied reproduction joints had copper material in the rubber dampner thus eliminating the need for the external copper ground.

Does anyone know if the reproduction rag joints need the copper ground connection? The application for the part I received from Paragon states it is for a 69-81 flat shaft.

Thanks for you usual outstanding guidance.

Lee

[Jack Layton]

Re: 70 Rag Joint

The service replacement rag joint for my 1965 had a metal screen impregnated into the rubber portion. This replaced the copper strap which was originally used. The original unit was a failure from day 1 out the factory door. Simply lacked continuity . No workee!
The service replacement has operated flawlessly since 1989.