Hello all,

New owner here of a 1977 F150 that I would like to start restoring to original condition. One of the first things I want to do is clean up some oil leaks and one of them is coming from the steering gears/box. I have not done work like this for a very long time and was wondering if someone could shed some light on how hard it is to replace the gears myself? Any gotcha's or things to look for? My plan is to replace the gears and the pitman arm with new since this looks to be the original gears and pitman arm.

This is a 2 wheel drive so that should make it a bit easier I hope.

Also, where do most of you shop (online) for your replacement parts?

Thanks everyone and have a happy holiday!

Mike

 

Hi Mike,

Unless you have a rare, low mileage 1977 F-150,
do not make the mistake of trying to keep it original,
the resell value is not there!

Ford didn't always have the best idea, lol
Many times aftermarket parts are better and cheaper.

I replaced the Steering Gear Box Seals in a 1979 F-150 2WD
years ago because of a leak.

Ensure the Sector Shaft and the Worm Assembly is reinstalled correctly.
I installed the worm assembly wrong and the wheels only turned one way.
I removed the steering box again and finally got it back together the right way.
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Red-Head Steering Gears is a quality Steering Box rebuilder
Red-Head makes their own parts in Seattle, WA
Phone: (206) 701-6918

I've heard of several complaints about A-1 Cardone Steering Box rebuilds
or reseals; because of leaks after it's installed on the customers truck.

Many Companies reseal the steering boxes, not rebuild them,
because many Ford steering gear box parts are obsolete now.

Ford’s Steering Box design does not have sector shaft bearings;
this is a flaw in these gearboxes.
The sector shaft rides directly on the housing and wears this area.
Red-Head makes bearings for the Sector Shaft to stop this wear pattern.

Since there are no parts available except seal kits,
whatever you buy from a parts store is not a rebuilt gearbox,
it's a resealed gearbox, and usually will start leaking again from
the sector shaft area where the Pitman Arm is attached.


So it's up to you;
if you buy the seal kit and take it apart yourself
or purchase a rebuilt unit from Red-Head Steering Gears.

Good Luck!