I disconnected the shift linkage (auto on column), removed the roll pin from the coupler, and slid the coupler up past the first set of splines. I already unbolted the box. I removed the nut and washer from the pitman arm, but I did not remove the pitman arm since I'm going to install a new box and a new pitman arm.

The factory manual says to loosen the "column to instrument cluster" nuts enough to slide some clamp out of the way. I have no idea what the manual is talking about here. I can't seem to get the box out.

Could anybody tell me what I need to do to get it out?

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'68 Dodge Dart 4dr Sedan

MOTOR manual, 33rd edition:

4. To provide sufficient clearance at coupling, loosen column jacket-to-instrument panel clamp bolts enough to disengage tab on clamp from slot in column jacket. Slide column up far enough to disengage coupling from worm shaft. (From 68-9 Chrysler, Monaco. Polara)

5. On all 6 cylinder models, remove steering gear mounting bolts and remove gear through engine compartment.

What theyre asking you to do, Pat, is to unbolt your steering column where it meets the dash, and pull the column towards you to disengage the splines fully from the gearbox. The worm shaft is just the input shaft on the box. There is a support tab that holds the column in place temporarily so you can bolt it up and this is the tab you are trying to clear. Watch the top of the column where it meets the dash as you do this.

I would also recommend rebolting the gearbox to the frame to take the weight off the splines so they will slide out easily. Don't forget the security blanket on the seat and a rag for your hands when you sit down inside.

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I've been calling it as i see it for my entire life and that's not about to change. Take it or leave it.

Thanks, steponmebbbboom, for the detailed instructions. Exactly the information I needed. I will try that first thing tomorrow morning. I will bolt the box up as you suggested, too, before I do it. It's too dark and cold outside right now to do any more tonight. And I already have a blanket on the seat...trashed interior.

Once I get this front end together and aligned, I can let everybody know how I like my 16:1 steering and .920" torsion bars.

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'68 Dodge Dart 4dr Sedan

I await with baited breath!

Is that flaming river or whatever a power unit? Shame about your seats, my front and rear bench both are MINT. Soon as I have some time to go to the upholsterer's I'm getting a clear cover put on the front. Are yours the offwhite polyester weave too? I cant believe mine survived without a scratch...

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I've been calling it as i see it for my entire life and that's not about to change. Take it or leave it.

It's the Flaming River manual gear box.

My seats were in OK shape when I got the car 5 years ago, but have since quickly disintegrated. I believe my vinyl bench seats are brown with "metallic fawn" insets.

When I have the money, I'll have them redone in some kind of cloth. I still want to figure out a good roll bar and seat belt system that will let me have safe harnesses but keep the bench seat. I just like bench seats a lot.

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'68 Dodge Dart 4dr Sedan

Got the old box out and the new one in. This stuff takes a long time without anybody to help. (extra set of hands)

Finished working on it for today.

Thanks for the help so far.

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'68 Dodge Dart 4dr Sedan

yup, the bench seat is what sold the girlfriend on it!

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I've been calling it as i see it for my entire life and that's not about to change. Take it or leave it.