Noob steering question

[badmix]

I havent had a chance to use search and will later on. But I see ppl talking about replacing a "rag" joint with a "U" joint, where are this on the truck and what does replacing one for another actually do/improve. With my truck im trying to eliminate any weak links BEFORE they break/go bad. My truck is an 84 K5

 

[4X4HIGH]

The "rag joint" is what attaches to the steering box that connects the steering shaft to your steering column. The "rag joint" over years of use and especially if they get soaked with P/S fluid or any fluid for that matter turn to mush and makes the steering alot more sloppy. Changing the steering shaft with one from a Jeep with u-joints eliminates any mushiness and makes for a more responsive steering.

Here is a tech write up on the matter. http://coloradok5.com/forums/showthread.php?t=169874