I just purchased a Dana 44 front axle off a 1977 F250.
It has a some sort of power steering assist mechanism. The person I purchased it from didn't know anything about it. Please have a look at the pics and help identify the part. It appears that it had 2 hydraulic lines attached to it at some point.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ilje34cldvqwo ... 2.JPG?dl=0

https://www.dropbox.com/s/1f7pccuhsfzzg ... 3.JPG?dl=0

https://www.dropbox.com/s/yuewjbzjcdekr ... 1.JPG?dl=0

Thanks,

Trent

 

Yup, you're correct... it's a PS assist ram/ hydraulic cylinder.

 

Looks like this axle is what you have, maybe? I believe it is a older "Ford Power Assist Steering" set up. At least is has disk brakes.

"Highboy steering was either manual (1967-1977.5) or optional power ram
assist (1973-1977.5). The power ram assist steering is problematic due to
its complexity with numerous hoses that get hit by road (or off-road)
debris, and the parts are now expensive and rare. There were two
different types of power ram assist steering on the Highboy: Garrison and
Bendix. Highboy steering, manual or optional power ram assist, is very
susceptible to bumpsteer. Many owners find it most desirable to convert to
crossover steering.

I also see the 3 d/s there, I bet it is a late year HB. Can't tell if it is a low pinion from the pic, but I think so?

 

to me it looks to be an after market one, where they use in rock crawlers,plus it looks like that was in one.