The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk How easy to rebuild 1958 steering box?

I appreciate any and all advice I get from you guys for sure.

I posted regarding fromt end wobble and all things point to the only thing left which is the steering box. Who in here has attempted this project and how did it turn out? Pretty sure that I can do it but need to hear from a few of you as to the possible issues I may or may not face.

Thanks in advance, Steve in Idaho

What I have found in the few that I have dissassembled (both cars and trucks) is that the bearing surface on the worm shaft is damaged. Generally the upper bearing runs out of grease and wipes out the bearing and the shaft becomes badly pitted. This surface is hard chrome and could be redone or the shaft replaced. There are kits available with bearings and small parts and the book gives a good rebuild procedure. There are a couple of sources in my area that do a good job rebuilding steering boxes and are reasonable.
Fred

Do you have instructions on how to remove the column? Looks like I have to drob the exhaust and jack it up pretty high to get it out. I did find the place in San Jose, CA which will rebuild it for $275. Do you have another source for rebuild?

Thanks Fred,

Steve

Have you read this booklet yet?

http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/booklets/5220mts03.htm

You will need a pitman arm puller. Set it up on stands, remove the wheel, pitman arm, steering wheel, turn signal, dash clamp, shift linkage, and mounting bolts and the whole column/gear box comes right out. If you have a V-8 truck, you will have to remove the left manifold. It should clear on a 6 cyl.
I have used ABS in Orange CA. www.abspowerbrake.com.
Fred