The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Steering Box

I have my steering box out for my 1957 Chevy truck. While out, I am thinking about having rebuilt..Is there away to check it for how bad it is?
Are they easy to do myself? Do I need any special tools?
I see Tuckers Classic Pickup Parts in Las Vegas has a whole new rebuilt box for $380.00. Jim Carter has a rebuilt kit for $85. Everything I need except worm gear. Can anyone tell me the function of the worm gear and if I need to replace it and if so, where would I find one.
Thank you!
Jon

Hy Unklrod, If your steering box was operating smoothly, with a small amount of slack in it, then it probably only requires an adjustment to compensate for normal wear. The adjustment procedure is in the maintenance manual. If it was lumpy or jerky it may have some bearing issues, and would need to be torn down for inspection and repair. If the worm gear shaft bearings need to be replaced they will have to be pressed off and on, so if you don't have a press you would have to have that done for you. The worm part of the shaft is usually serviceable, but if you must find a new one it must be one for a 57 - 59, the 55 and 56 shafts are longer, hope that helps.

3B,
Thank you.
I am in contact with Tuckers in Vegas and I am waiting for a call back to see if they rebuild them. The kits from Jim Carter do not include the worm gear. Filling Station has tem for $120. But I they do not include work either.

Where can I find a new worm gear?

The steering box felt fine before I took it out. Not much play in the wheel. But I am thinking while it is out might as well get it done.

Thank you!

Jon

They are simple to o-haul & well worth the effort, even if it,s in good shape you get it cleaned out & fresh lube. The 2 main parts, the worm & the sector generally dont need replaceing. Inspect the teeth & the part of the worm that rides on the bearings. If they are OK you are good to go. The parts that wear the most are the sector shaft bushings. the slightest amount of play can give you free play in the steering. I would never have one out & not go through it & I would never pay anyone $380 for one.

Wrenchbender,
That was my next question! How much would it cost to rebuild.
i will let you all know how it goes.

Thank you!

Jon

Hello all,
Sending my stock steering box to Tuckers in Las Vegas. They will rebuild it for $379.

Let you all know how it goes.....

Thank you for the help...

Jon

Cheapest I have found yet is from ClassicParts in Kansas City.
the 57-59 is shorter than earlier years. 55-56 are longer as they have the flat steering wheel. 57-59 have shorted columns and longer deeper steering wheels so they end up in the same position at your stomach.

ClassicParts shows them for sale at $225 rebuilt and a core charge. 57-59 steering box "Original rebuilt steering box. Comes with a 2 year warranty. Please add $75 core charge. 36" steering column, Oversized Shipping Charge: $27.95 " they have 3speed and 4speed versions.

Or a kit Price :$64.95 : kit "Includes bearings, race, busings, packing, gasket and instructions for rebuilding original steering box. The shims and the side adjuster screw are no longer avaliable, they have been discontinued. "

so in adjusting play out of the wheel, you just remove the bolt and move the worm gear? I have about a half a steering wheel turn of play in mine. its smooth, but I do alot of swinging that big wheel around while driving

56 stepside - "half a turn" of play is likely to be other worn components, not the steering box - have some one work the wheel play while you look underneath and see if you don't have bad joints somewhere like the drag link or tie rod ends

Bill

ok, thanx red58

Also check the spring shackles and eye bushings- they tend to be overlooked and underlubed.