I have a 74 F-250 4 X 4 HI Boy and would like to update the powersteering to the power box type (like the 79's) I have read different messages on this web site concerning this subject but I'm still unclear about a couple of things. I have a power steering box off of a 77 F-250 2 wheel drive, I think its the same as a 4 x 4 and I also think I can get it mounted to the frame. What I am sure I don't know is, if I walk into an auto parts store and buy a tie rod for a 79 F-250 4 x 4, will it fit my truck? OR Do I need to change the entire front axle to a 79 type with disc brakes?

 

2 wheel drive and 4 wheel drive boxes are different. two wheel drive mounts inside frame and 4x4 box is outside the frame. entirerly different boxes

 

I haven't seen that box before, but I think it's different. That doesn't mean that it won't work, it'll just be harder to make it work.

the main reason for going with the 78/79 F250 4x4 box is that it fits real nice with very few mods.

I did this upgrade a while back on my 73 F250 4x4 and used the 79 F250 4x4 box and ALL the connections: bar from firewall to box, box to under frame, under frame bar to axle and even used the pump and hoses.

the only thing I had to do is drill some holes in the frame and make a backing plate for the box to rest against.

The stock box should rest inside the frame just before the crossmember and the power box is larger and won't hit the frame, so you'll have to bend down that lip in the frame and make a box about 2.5" thick so the box will have a solid backing.

I had to grind down the box a bit to get it to fit as far back as I could in order to clear the rad. I'm using the 4 core extra large rad and had to cut the bracket on it to get it to fit around the box.

the point is that it's much easier to use the 78/79, but you could make nearly any box work.