Leaking steering box

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Jan 20, 2004 | 12:20 PM

carpe_diem

Thread Starter

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Feb 2003

Posts: 1,314

Likes: 35

Leaking steering box

1989 F250HD, 85,000 miles

I found a leak of pink stuff and it seems to be coming from where the gear box joints the steering shaft.

I checked the power steering fluid, it seems to be a bit low.

Now what? I am surprised that it is developing problems at a relatively low mileage. Maybe it is the age. Anyway, is it the gear box or some kind of seal that's the problem? Is it hard to remove? What tools do I need? Pitman arm puller?

P.S. If it is the steering box, where do I get the OEM one?

PS2. The power steering pump is nearly new, so I know that's not the problem.

Last edited by carpe_diem; Jan 20, 2004 at 12:23 PM.

Jan 21, 2004 | 12:29 AM

bigric

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Aug 2001

Posts: 1,526

Likes: 0

From: Round Rock, TX

New doesn't mean not defective, but it sounds you're right on about the seal at the top of the gearbox. I know that the upper seal is replaceable; somebody should chime in here with recommendations.

Jan 21, 2004 | 10:36 AM

carpe_diem

Thread Starter

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Feb 2003

Posts: 1,314

Likes: 35

I am not really sure if the gear box itself should be replaced - or even be removed for the seal swap. 85,000 miles -- does that sound like replaceable territory, or should I try to get say 40,000 out of it?

I had a Chebby where the steering box was worn out at 160,000 miles. Just to be clear, on this truck, I experience to problems with steering.

Jan 21, 2004 | 11:10 PM

carpe_diem

Thread Starter

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Feb 2003

Posts: 1,314

Likes: 35

the FSM calls it Steering Box Input Shaft Seal

In the chapter where it talks about its replacement it looks like it requires removal, though I keep hearing 2 different versions.