Steering Box Rebuild Expectations

[J__P__]

All,

I have purchased the steering box rebuild kit from our host and before attempting the install would like to understand what should be my expected outcome. Basically want to know which of the current problems that I am experiencing should be corrected by the rebuild kit.

1. Box leaks out most of the oil within a few days leaving a puddle.
2. Steering wheel has an estimated 2 1/4" of play from center to both left & right before beginning to move the tires.
3. It is difficult to tell where you are steering when taking curves of speeds over 20 mph.
4. Truck doesn't wonder (much) when going in a straight line except for the steering wheel play.

Things already accomplished that might be suspect:
New - king pins, leaf springs, shocks, tie rods, pitman arm, front end alignment. Everything new up front except the rod between the tie rods.

Followed the instructions from the 54 manual to adjust steering to recommended pull weight on steering wheel.

Worm Bearing lock nut and worm bearing adjuster are near flush with each other. Lash adjuster and check nut are near flush also. Not sure if there is any more adjustment left. Nothing is lumpy or dragging when steering.

Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you.

 

[Flashlight]

Mine had the same issues....I was gun shy after trying to rebuild the heater mixer and failed. I bought the rebuilt boxfrom our sponsor and it was easy to install, 2 guys one afternoon.

It tracks down the road like a new Mercedes, great road feel and response. I can barely recall the terror I felt going around a 2 lane curve with steel guards on each side and a fleet of oncoming dump trucks!!!

 

[J__P__]

I'm right there with you. Sounds like you have driven my truck.

There is an S-curve right by the house and driving through it in the truck rivals any white knuckle ride at an amusement park. Makes me sweat just thinking about it.

Thanks for the for the response. Really appreciate the feedback.

Can't wait to get out to the garage and and get the steering upgraded.

Have a great day.

 

[Chiro]

loose steering no more

I adjusted my steering box EXACTLY as it says in the shop manual and it steers great. No more S-curve surprises...and I haven't even rebuilt the tie rod ends yet. I've had the kit forever, just haven't gotten to it. I used a digital fishing scale on the wheel to check the turning force. worked great.

Andy

 

[vwnate1]

Steering Box Basics

After it's overhauled and back on the truck , BE SURE to center it using a degree wheel before attaching the pitman drop arm ! .

You LIFE depends on this .

 

[J__P__]

Nate,

Appreciate the reminder.

If I recall there is a thread on this site that describes this process. I'll look for the information before we get to the installation of the pitman drop arm.

Thank you sir.

 

[vwnate1]

Centering The Steering Box

This is REALLY important as it affects the geomerty of the front suspension and you must never trust it was done correctly when new , much less after that tie rod end failed in 1964 and the gas station Mechanic just slapped one onand eyeballed the toe - in.......