1965 Steering Linkage Finishes

[James W.]

I have a few questions regarding the correct finishes for some of the steering linkage components on a '65 Corvette.

I know the tie-rod ends, adjusting sleeves and clamps are all suppose to be painted semi-gloss black, but are the bolts, lock washers and nuts that tighten the clamps around the adjusting sleeves supposed to be painted black also or were they a natural finish or cad finish? Were these components put together and painted as an assembly?

Also, is the nut and lock washer that attach the pitman arm to the steering box shaft supposed to be a natural finish, cad plated or black phosphate plated? The TMJG says that the pitman are on a non-power steering car is to be painted semi-gloss black, but the TMJG does not specify the correct finish for nut and lock washer.

It also states that the steering box is a natural cast finish or may be painted black to some degree. Which is correct when judged?

Thanks,

James West

[Joe L.]

Re: 1965 Steering Linkage Finishes

James-----

The steering linkage was coated as an assembly. "Everything" was coated except for the ball studs which were covered with a cardboard tube section. The coating process was not real precise, though, and "holidays" were common.

The nut and lockwasher retaining the pitman arm to the pitman shaft were both "black phosphate", but looked closer to gray than black.

For the steering box, I believe that either natural or black are considered acceptable for judging. However, for most C2, I believe that the box was painted semi-gloss black.