Steering box recommendations?
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Steering box recommendations?
So I suspect the steering box on my truck is a little mucked up; basically the power assist going in one direction is much greater than going in the other direction which makes it harder to drive than I would like (makes it easy to overcorrect to one side going down the freeway). From reading threads I know some people realy like the red head steering gear remans while others have said they aren't worth it.
At this point is there a general consensus about what kind of box is best (or if there are other reman brands that tend to be really good)? I am going to have a shop install it so guessing and checking would quickly pile up on cost.
At this point is there a general consensus about what kind of box is best (or if there are other reman brands that tend to be really good)? I am going to have a shop install it so guessing and checking would quickly pile up on cost.
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Joined: Jan 2001
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From: Virginia
Everyone goes crazy over the red-head boxes. They must be good. If money is not a factor, buy one. I don't have that kind of money, so I use the local store boxes. Been good so far but it can be a crap shoot.
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Joined: Feb 2003
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From: Muskegon, MI (home)
I have bought and installed several reman units from Napa and Advance Auto, no issues to speak of. Changing the steering gear on these trucks is relatively easy, even a novice DIY mechanic should be able to do the job without too many issues. I would say the worst part of the job is dealing with the weight of the gearbox, they're not exactly light. Also getting the pitman arm off can be a bit of a challenge. It requires a special puller, they are available as a loan-a-tool at most part stores. While you're at it, its not a bad idea to replace the pressure and return hoses...and flush the system. Just my 2 cents.
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Well, I ended up getting a red head box. The main thing I can say is that it does exactly what it is supposed to do and not be getting my attention. In other words it is tight and has equal power assist in both directions.
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