Vega steering shaft-- part in front of box?

[JohnP]

Replacing the steering box on my 71 Vega, got it all out, but was just wondering, what it the part/joint that is just before where the steering box and steering shaft meet? Its in a rubber boot, and seems to have some spring tension in it. Seems to slide in and out also? Is this some kind of coupler? Is it a part that wears out and might need replacing?

[NixVegaGT]

Hey John. It is a coupler. It has limited travel and I think it's just there to take up the tolerance in the assembly of the car. It think chances are that it's just fine and doesn't need replacing. I may have a spare if you find that it is shot 'cause I'm building a rack system for it.