Facing the front of my truck, the steering box is to the right of the radiator, there is a hole on the left side of the steering box on the top. When I put ATF into the reservoir, it just drains out immediately from this hole. I tried puttig a screw into this hold, but it threads down and never tightens. What is this hole? Why is the ATF draining out of this hole?

 

That looks like the ball or plug that was installed in that oil passage after machining blew out. I never saw that happen before. Here's a pic of my early IFS steering box.

 

There's an oil passage drilled across that rib and then straight down from where the plug should be. IDK how you could fix it. If you tap it for a set screw or something, it has to allow oil to pass.

 

Think I could apply some JB Weld in the hole?

 

I think it originally had a steel ball or rod pressed in and peened over. IDK if JB Weld would hold steering pressure? You definitely don't want to plug the passage either.

Since I don't have it in front of me to look at, I really don't know what to suggest for a repair. I'm wondering if there's enough material to tap for a short fine thread setscrew.

 

That's a bummer. That's what I was thinking too. Is it difficult to remove the steering box?

 

Sorry for the late reply. There's two hoses to disconnect, the steering shaft needs to be disconnected, remove the pitman arm OR leave it on and disconnect at the drag link and 3 mounting bolts. Kind of a pain on a stock truck with limited room for access. Watch some videos.

Good luck with it and please follow up with your fix. This is a weird one.

 

I'm just starting to look for the videos to remove the steering gear box, but off the top of your head is there a way that I can do it without having to use some kind of puller?

 

You don't HAVE to pull the pitman arm. You can pull the steering link to it if you want.

You should center your steering and mark the steering shaft and pitman arm before you pull them. Mainly just to save you any confusion when you go back together. A paint marker works.

You can probably check out a pitman arm puller from most auto parts stores. Not all pullers are the same so it's possible you could get one that doesn't work for you.

I personally think you're better off just getting a cheap puller and save yourself the fight of the alternative methods. I've done them all.

 

I'm thinking about pulling the gear box and having someone welding that hole closed. Think that will hold enough to keep pressure from bleeding off?

 

Re: Pitman Arm Puller, remember that torquing the push screw may not be enough to pull the pitman arm out. Read the instructions. One that I used specifically said to torque the screw/shaft of the puller then whack it with a hammer/mallet.
IF you need replacement gearbox, I got my rebuilt OEM from NAPA with 1 year warranty. Core is refunded.

 

Once you get it pulled, can you post up a clear pic? IDK if welding or brazing is your best option. What ever you do, make sure the flow through those passages is not impeded. I've never seen or heard of that factory plug blowing out. Maybe there is more wrong with your steering box to cause that? Maybe take @RAD4Runner up on his offer? Good luck with whatever you decide to do. Please follow up after you get it fixed.

 

That's good advice bud! Thank you very much! I'll keep that in mind when I get to a point of pulling it.

This has just been a huge mess. The truck belonged to my uncle who recently passed away. I thought that this was a great opportunity to own something that belonged to a person that I loved very much as well as get something that will be great on gas. I got the truck and it's just been an absolute nightmare so far. Right out of the gate I had to put a new battery in it. Things happen and I expected it. Then I had to pull the bed off in order to replace the fuel pump. The fuel filter was also almost clogged and that was a nightmare getting to that. I've since relocated the fuel filter to make it easier to service. I replaced Vane Airflow Meter because the original one was seized up. Now I need a new Idle Air Control Valve, brake master cylinder, brakes, rotors, wheel cylinders, new head lights, etc.., etc..., etc.. Just the way she goes with an old truck. I'm thankful and grateful to own it. I'm just broke. Haha! Just started a new job, so I'm trying to play catchup.

Alas, @RAD4Runner how much are you asking for the gear box?

 

Hey bud. I'll make sure to post a pic as soon as I get it pulled. I've got a lot of proverbial irons in the fire with this rascal, so it may take me a minute to get back around to removing the steering gear box.

I'll probably just end up putting a new gear box on it.

 

Sorry about your uncle.
Good decision to keep the truck. My 1986 has some bad rust spots itself, but having served me well the past 13 years and still running well, I'm keeping it, too.
We'd be happy to help you restore yours, too.

Sorry about the mis-understanding I do not have a gearbox to sell. I simply meant to say that I got mine at NAPA a few years ago.
Parts for our truck are easy to come by at reasonable prices so just make a list of things and prioritize the essentials. .

 

No rush for sure. I totally get it. I'm advising another guy with a similar situation. Inherited an 86 and does not have a lot of mechanical experience. Little by little. My neighbor just trailered the 98 Tacoma he had years ago and brought it back from Utah. Been sitting for years so plenty to do but it's already running. I've had plenty of these trucks and I'm at almost 5 years for my current build. Life can get in the way.....a LOT.

I wish you luck with it!
Scott in AZ.