The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline a better alternative to a steering box

WHAT or who makes a better alternative to a steering box that can work
with the stock pitman arm and steering front end.

my old steering box is loose as a goose and hopefully some
company makes or some body has adapted a better steering
box than having me buy a re-poped original.

my whole front end is restored, but the steering box sucks

any hints or mods guys ???

1951 AD 5 window, photos on link.

You've been around here as long as I have and from your
pictures It's apparent that you're no stranger to the business
end of a wrench. Why not just buy the parts and rebuild it
your self? Everything is available, bearings, seals, gaskets
including a new worm gear assembly if you need that.

The stock steering box is more than adequate for the job and
if they've lasted 60-70 years in service, your rebuilt one
is gonna out last you a couple of times over.

dg

There is

1. Did you do the steering adjustment described in the Shop Manual?

If yes,
2. Denny's advice is excellent.
or
3. Professionally/beautifully rebuilt steering boxes can be had for about $273 plus shipping (compare that to the cost of all parts) Rockauto is MUCH less expensive than dealing directly with Lares - the price AND especially the shipping.

Just a comment, there is no re-popped steering box available.

Just looking at what it states on Rock Auto, what they are offering is a rebuild and return service, not remanufactured boxes.

If Lares has a rebuilt unit in stock, they sell it and you have to send a core or pay a core charge.

If Lares does not have one in stock, you have to send your "core" to get it rebuilt.

I have had to do each way described above (through Rockauto, which costs less for the rebuild and costs much less for the shipping).

I have posted this warning in other posts about Lares: do not buy a rebuilt 54/55 truck unit from Lares (or through Rockauto). Lares has a misconception about a 54/55 truck steering unit. Arrange to send your unit in for a rebuild.

How do you measure the wear on a steering box? My GMC feels ok but there has to be a way to accurately measure.

Another question: Who has used a power steering kit with the stock I beam and steering column? How has it performed? Aftermarket or home adapted?
Thanks

Toyota box with GM pump has given me good service for 3 years in a '55 2nd series. I won't compare it to new trucks, but it works well for its generation.

There are two simple ways to get an idea of a box wear.
First is to see how much the adjuster is sticking out of the lock nut on the side cover. Originally the adjuster sticks out of the lock nut about 3/16" or so. If it is flush or the adjuster barely has enough threads for the lock nut it is well worn.
Second is to rock the steering wheel back and forth slightly and watch the pitman shaft where it comes out of the box. If you see it move fore and aft there is wear in the bushings or shaft.

Thank you fellas

You could try this type of setup.
http://www.thehollisterroadcompany.com/media/1947_3800/47truckassembly%20008.JPG

it works very well, uses the stock box and Pittman arm. There are other mods that need to be done but does go lock to lock on the stock steering. its basically a 67 C10 or corvette PS setup adapted for this truck

That looks....interesting, but what is going on there? I've seen power Rams on the tie rod on my old vettes but this is somehow on the Pittman arm only. HOW does this work?