193,000 miles. Steering box is leaking and there's more than an inch of lost motion at the steering wheel. I had the front end aligned at a truck shop a couple years back, and it steers fine and tracks straight. The main issue is the leak. I checked rockauto and their option is a Gates kit or send it in to Cardone for a recondition with a $250 core deposit. On ebay there are several reconditioned units for $250 - $350. NAPA doesn't even list one. New from an online dealer is $800+. How tough a job is this to do at home with the kit. I'm limited to ordinary hand tools. I don't have pullers or even a stout vise. I do have several BFH's.

Opinions/options solicited. Thanks

 

Not sure what the process is to rebuild them but you said it has limited steering? On one direction or both? Have you checked the steering stabilizer for damage or made sure the tie rods are adjusted evenly on both sides? What about the steering stop bolts down on the spindle by the brakes?

Your profile says Fresno. If everything is adjusted correctly and it is the actual box, I might have my old manual box in my storage I'll sell if you're willing or can make a drive down to the high desert area? I removed it from my '94 2wd when I swapped on power steering. You would have to run your pitman arm though because the one on there was custom made for different center link position. I'll check to see if I have it if you're interested.

 

I'm interested. Nothing wrong with the linkages, just slack in the box and the leak(s). I could live with it, but the lube is nasty and I get tired of moving the drip pan. I can drive out to the desert
https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/...build+kit,7397
https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/...ring+gear,7416

Jim