Rag joint question

When cleaning steering box, I took off rag joint, there was a small copper piece on it...In all the rebuild kits I dont see this piece...well is it important??? I assume it is there for a reason..

Thanks, Ron

the copper piece is a ground..

it connects the steering shaft to the steering box as they would normally be insulated by the rubber disc.

im not sure if its needed.. but I was always put it back in.

Hmmm. I don't recall seeing one on mine when I replaced my rag joint.
I can't get my horn to work even with a new contact, wonder if there's a connection? (pun intended)

Yup, this is the ground for the steering column. The horn may or may not work with out this piece installed. Replacement joints I have seen do not have this in any of them...so I am not sure the best way to solve the delima. The original had either a strap or a screen sandwhiched in the rubber part. I have had the column out three times the last few months and know this area quite well. A jumper of some sort may be needed.

I was thinking about a jumper too, thanks!

Sorry for my ignorance, but what do you mean by an jumper.

Ruready2go said: Sorry for my ignorance, but what do you mean by an jumper.

short piece of wire connecting both sides of the joint

Crimp the wire onto eylet connectors, and put one eyelet on each side of the joint, under the bolts or nuts.

kstyer said: Crimp the wire onto eylet connectors, and put one eyelet on each side of the joint, under the bolts or nuts.

Is that a guarantee my horn will work?

Is that a guarantee my horn will work?

the advice came from KEN.. what more do you want ??