I have a severe leak coming out of my steering shaft, right where it meets the steering box.  I believe this is a torn rag joint(maybe not), but I am not for sure.  I recently bought this sammi and my issue is, I don't know what kind of power steering was put into the sammurai, because it has toyota converted axles, driveshafts, diffys.  Does it matter what power steering I have, or are the rag joints universal.  I am assuming the power steering is Toyota as well.  I was told the steering goes side to side instead of front to back or something like that if that helps at all.  I am looking for a part number or idea of what rag joint to get?  Any help would be appreciated!

The "rag" joint, as it is commonly known, can neither leak, nor cause the steering box to leak - the "rag" joint is the flexible joint that connects the splined shaft on the steering box to the steering column - a sort of reinforced rubber disk, sandwiched between metal plates with pairs of bolts at right angles to one another - it's purpose is to allow for slight misaligment between the box and the column.

The leak has to be from the box itself, so you're now left with the challenge of identifying what steering box has been fitted to your Sami and then determining whether it can be rebuilt (it's possibly nothing more complicated than replacing a seal) or if it must be replaced.

Maybe - if you post a picture of what you have - one of the other members might recognize it.

I agree the rag is not used as a seal of any sorts. It would have to be a seal on the steering box where the rag joint slides on the shaft of the steering box.

If your box is mounted on the outside of the frame and the steering arm is facing towards the rear of the rig it is probably a Toy Ifs box.

 If the box is mounted on the outside of the frame and the steering arm is facing forward you probably have an FJ60 or FJ80 steering box.

There are too many options to guess at if it is mounted to the inside of the frame. Then a pic would definitely help.

Look in the yellow pages and see if you have a place local to take care of the seal replacement or maybe a rebuild. Had my FJ80 box rebuilt for about 300.00.

Hopefully it's just a seal.  If its more than that, I will probably just buy a new one, rather than rebuild one for $300, if thats what it would cost.  You guys are right, it has nothing to do with the rag joint.  The leak is right where the shaft meets the gear box.  Let me know your guy's thoughts.  Thanks!

Looks like a Toy IFS box to me. It is leaking from the shaft seal.

As I suggested see if you have a place local that can replace the seal. The IFS boxes are much cheaper to replace then the FJ80 they are about 400.00 used if youre lucky to find one, thats why I rebuilt mine. If you need to replace yours Trail Gear sells rebuilt ones or you can take a chance on finding another used one in working condition.

Whether you replace it or rebuild it.  Before removing the steering box center your steering wheel and note where (what angle) the steering arm is.  Then when replacing the steering box you will know where to start.  Do not tighten the steering arm down, until you have checked that it is centered and turns same amount both ways.  The arm is mounted on a tapered spline and can require a press to get off once tightened to spec's.  The possibilities of getting another one already in correct position is small.  I would run it down the driveway or block with it just snug to ensure that steering wheel is centered where you want it and not off by one or two teeth, and then tighten it.  (It is annoying having a crooked steering wheel, and knowing you made it that way.)  If steering box is not centered before attaching the steering arm you will be able to turn further in one direction than the other direction.

FWIW - I have found Suzuki steering boxes at wrecking yards with 6 mo. to 1 yr warranties for less than rebuild kits.  (Not suggesting changing to Suzuki.)