spindrift
Full Access Member
Getting ready to change out my gearbox with one from Redhead. Any advice for a first timer? Do's/Don'ts. Special tools to make the job go easier, etc, etc? Any help would be appreciated.
Steering box
- Thread starter spindrift
- Start date
stroker21
Full Access Member
You will probably need a drop pitman arm puller, can be rented. check your hoses and if they look bad, you might replace them too. I just replaced my power steering pump, and both hoses for $100. Never replaced a steering box. But definitely the pitman arm puller.
Brad B
Full Access Member
Why are having to replace it? Just curious since your truck is pretty new.
spindrift
Full Access Member
It's a long, long, long story.
Alignment was checked by a very good shop. Many upgrades to the truck and still a wander going down the highway. Took it back to the alignment shop and verified that everything was good. Owner of the shop, who has an Ex, took it for a drive and confirmed what I was experiencing. Went to my "trusty" Ford dealership and they said there was nothing wrong with the truck. Left a telephone message for the GM of the dealership. No response. Wrote a letter to the GM...no response.
I don't have the time. or energy, to fight it anymore. Feel more better doing the work myself than trusting the dealership and an OEM box. From what I understand, Redhead boxes are top shelf.
That's my story and I'm stickin' to it.
Alignment was checked by a very good shop. Many upgrades to the truck and still a wander going down the highway. Took it back to the alignment shop and verified that everything was good. Owner of the shop, who has an Ex, took it for a drive and confirmed what I was experiencing. Went to my "trusty" Ford dealership and they said there was nothing wrong with the truck. Left a telephone message for the GM of the dealership. No response. Wrote a letter to the GM...no response.
I don't have the time. or energy, to fight it anymore. Feel more better doing the work myself than trusting the dealership and an OEM box. From what I understand, Redhead boxes are top shelf.
That's my story and I'm stickin' to it.
spindrift
Full Access Member
Tried that, too. No difference. In fact, it almost feels as though the gears are locked up because any adjustment makes no difference in the little play I currently have in the wheel.
bartman
Full Access Member
I first indexed the screw with some white paint. Then I loosened the lock nut and made 1/4" turn adjustments with an allen wrench until the tires moved in unison with the steering wheel(truck running) or something close to it. Held the position with the allen wrench and retightened the lock nut. A little fluid leaked during this proceedure but stopped when I tightened everything back up.
Tbar
bartman
Full Access Member
Hmmmm....we may need to do this during the next mod day.
Brad B
Full Access Member
Weird and obviously frustrating problem. Good luck.
