Just need a couple of opinions. Got a 91 4runner, and the steering box is done. It had a ton of play, and recently sprung a major leak. Just need to know what's a better plan of action.

Rebuild it for $50-$100? Would the rebuild get rid of the play?

Or

Buy an eBay used one for $125? Supposed to not leak and have little or no play.

I'm soon to be running some slightly heavier tires as well. Thanks for the help.

 

Rebuild it. Rockauto.com...less than $12 for a seal kit. They are easy to rebuild, intimidating but easy. Where's it leaking from?

There's an adjustment to remove play on the top of the gearbox...

 

I had to search...a little...but this is what I used:

http://128.83.80.200/taco/box.html

 

Already adjusted it. It's leaking from that top plate that the adjustment screw is on

 

You may be able to just get that washer, its a steel impregnated rubber oring washer. However, it may be cheaper to buy the whole rebuild kit as opposed to JUST that oring/washer thingy...

 

Thanks for the help. I'm still a bit iffy on the play. Even after I adjusted it, still had alot. When I'm in there, can I shim it somehow?

 

are u sure the play is in the box and not the tire rods?

 

I'd say 70% of it is. I'm ordering all new tie rods, ball joints, idler and pitman arms. I know they are in need of replacement. The play may be acceptable after that. Found the kit for $22, or $50 depending on what month the truck was made

 

Hey BBP, thanks for the tip to rockauto for the seal kit and the link for the "how-to" writeup. The kit on rock auto is $22 now. Did you do yours a while ago? Perhaps the price went up, or perhaps I'm just looking at the wrong kit. Either way, it looks complete. Just wanted to double check.

Didn't mean to thread jack

EDIT: Even though the kit I just found on Rockauto.com goes for $22-$30 (my truck is an '88), O'reilly sells the GATES brand kit ($30 at rockauto) for $115. Just a warning for anyone thinking of buying from a brick and mortar...