Steering box rebuild?

[Skunksmash]

I've been wanting to rebuild my steering box, but how hard is it? The truck has too much play in the wheel before it engages and actually starts steering. Especially at highway speeds. It feels like you have to turn the wheel about 4 or 5 inches before you actually get any response from the front wheels. So I was wondering if anyone here has ever rebuilt their steering box, and how hard it was to do.

[beastie_3]

It has been said that it is difficult to do, but can be done. Compare the price of a rebuild kit and a new box and decide for yourself which way to go. If you do rebuild it, we would love a detailed "how to".

[VileZambonie]

What makes you think it's in the gear box? 4-5" of play will not be because of the gear box.

[bake74]

     You should make sure the shaft going in is turning and the shaft coming out is not turning before tearing into steering gear box, at least that way you will know if it is the steering box or not.

[Skunksmash]

What makes you think it's in the gear box? 4-5" of play will not be because of the gear box.

What would you recommend that I take a look at instead? Nothing else seems excessively worn, though I'm certainly no expert. I'd be happy to hear any advice on what else causes loose steering.

[beastie_3]

do what bake said

[VileZambonie]

Use the search terms "dry park check" and you'll find several explanations.

[Skunksmash]

Use the search terms "dry park check" and you'll find several explanations.

Maybe he's recompiled the search since then?

http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php?action=search2

[Blazin]

I just bought a reman box for my 1 ton from NAPA for $160 bucks with a $100 something core.

[Skunksmash]

Yeah they're not too awful pricey. Could be worse. The reman kit looks like its mostly just a bunch of seals, but I'm wondering if you need a press or anything to get it apart. Probly a lot better off to just buy a reman.

[VileZambonie]

Use the search terms "dry park check" and you'll find several explanations.

Maybe he's recompiled the search since then?

http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php?action=search2

What do you mean?

http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php?topic=6945.0

http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php?topic=6706.0

http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php?topic=14609.0

[Skunksmash]

I guess I mean I suck at searching  

Thanks for the links man they explained a lot. But um, if it comes down to it... how big a job is it to replace the steering box? Is it something a shade tree mechanic like myself could do?

[beastie_3]

I dont think it looks too hard. More of an inconvenience because the bolts, well on mine anyway, are kinda hidden. But its only 3 or 4. unhook fluid lines, disconnect the rag joint and you should be done. Might get more room if you take out the inner fender, but dont think its necessary.

When it is out, be sure to check the frame for cracks. They are very prone to cracking right there.

[Skunksmash]

Cool thanks I'll do that. Mine isn't a 4x4 so maybe I'll get lucky in that department. First chance I can make the wife help me with the "Dry park check", I will. And then I'll report back and say what I found out.

I think the screw on the top for adjusting the gears positions is an allen wrench though.

[beastie_3]

its either allen or flat tip. im not sure, mine is caked with dirt.