Steering Shaft Seal Replacement - 80 Series
Author: Philip In-Albon Feb 11, 2012
The most overlooked reason for hot drivers feet is the steering shaft seal. Chances are if your seal has never been replaced then its bad. The FSM replacement procedure is crazy. Here is another option that takes ~20 minute and a ~$10 part.
The seal is located on the inside of the floor board were the steering shaft passes through the firewall. Position your steering coupler (just above your seal) where the two 3/8" dia. post are position up and down. Remoce the 2 bolts that holds the old seal in place. Next remove the 2 - 12mm nuts and bolts on the steering coupler. Roll the steering coupler to the side to seperate the two pieces. Now remove the bolt (bolt must be removed, not just loosen) on the steering box side of the coupler.
Prior to sliding off the splines, take a sharpie and mark were the coupler and shaft come together. It must be replaced in the same position or your steering wheel will end up being turned while going straight. Slide the old seal off the shaft, prior to sliding the new seal over the shaft coat the inside of the seal with silicon grease. Reverse the procedure and reinstall the seal to the floor board LAST.