The steering gear on my 88 F-150 leaks from where the steering arm comes off the bottom. No leaks at hoses or fittings. Is there a seal that can be replaced? Is it a big job? any tips? Thanks!

 

There's a ~$90 kit you can get for the gearbox. This kit lasted a few months for me, then I had to replace the gearbox. The leaking at the pitman arm is common in these trucks and seems to point to a worn gearbox.

 

Been there, done that. In my business I have found that it is cheaper in the long run just to replace the steering box. The kits never seem to last unless you replace the shaft also. By the time you replace the shaft and seal kit, add the labor of doing the project, your in the price range of a new box. Consider that plus the warranty that comes with a new or rebuilt box.

I have replaced the box on four of my pick-ups. A box normally last me about 10-12 years, depending on wear and tear.

Good luck. Jake.

 

 

i actually just did this rebuild myself and havent had it leak yet. it has only been a month though. mine went bad cause the dust seal wasnt working properly which collected dirt and ended up wearing out the oil seal. with a little emery cloth to clean up the shaft and new seals all around it turned out to be not too bad. my advice would be to buy the kit and also buy a rebuilt box. tear your old one down and see if it is rebuildable (if you have to replace the shaft, put in the rebuilt box you purchased) or if it has excessive play. after your done just return the parts you didnt use. good luck

 

If you can replace the seal go ahead and do it. Then start looking for a rebuilt box. They are notorious for leaking there near the arm. And equally as notorious for causing otherwise law abiding people to be pulled over by the police for appearing to be intoxicated You will be amazed at how neat a "new" steering box feels!

 

Go to Advanced Auto Parts and get their rebuilt box for about $170. I don't know if it is any better than others but they have a life time warranty.

 

I started today trying to do this. My van is a E350 1987. My problem is getting the pit arm off the ball joint (or is it called something else)? So I could pull the box and then get the pit arm off using puller I purchased.
Also need to change the couplar thingy while I am at it. Can someone direct me in this?

My chiltons book is useless.

 

BreazeAire, just changed my steering gearbox on my 92 today, go to Autozone and rent a breaker socket for 15.00, I used the 34mm and it worked great getting that nut off the pitman arm. My Truck is 100 percent tighter, going for a new front end alignment and I'll be cooking with gas. Hayes manuel is great, never did a steering gearbox change before and with the manuel, it tells you step by step instructions, hey if I can do it you can also..

 

I am almost done, had to take the night off, start fresh sunday. My big problem was getting the pitman arm off the tie rod thingy that goes to pass. wheel side. Bought a ball joint tool, hit and hit, heated with fire, cooled with water, used all sorts of stuff, taped all around the arm, tried again ... it came off

I have a really funny pic of me getting the pitman arm off the gear box, it was easy compared to the other stuff.

 

Hey guys,

Wish I could help but I noticed a few new users and wanted to say Hello and Welcome to FTE!