Hey guys, in the middle of my build and thinking about rebuilding or replacing my power steering box. It's not bad, car only has 68k original miles, but it does seem to have leaked over the years. Would you suggest just buying a new one or rebuilding it? I rebuilt mine in my 68 cougar, but money was a lot tighter back then. I also have had "new" power steering pumps that had leaky braze joints and rust under the paint that ended up looking ragged in about a year. I read (stanger53, i think) sells kits, is he still around? Also read a 68+ mustang rebuild kit will work except for the top gasket - I am assuming I can just cut a gasket myself to match the old one. Thanks in advance
If it isn't worn, I'd replace seals and gasket and call it rebuilt... I dunno about top cover but I do know these same exact steering boxes were used on the '67-'71 Falcon, Fairlane, Torino, Cyclone etc(also '75-'80 Granada)... Yes there are differences in the Stang & Cougar box...
I had my box rebuilt only because I was converting from manual to power. The box was a junkyard acquisition and I did not know the history. I had it rebuilt by Stangers Site. He was slow but did a good job. As far as leakage, the box is filled with grease and there is a pressure release at the top. Are you sure yours is actually leaking? I think the seal at the output shaft would be most likely to leak than the cover. This would be grease and not fluid. With only 68,000 miles, I would not think that your box would need a rebuild. I think that the most benefit to reduce slop is to rebuild the idler arm, tie rods and control valve assembly. If you have leaks, it is most likely in the control valve assembly and the ram. Both of which are easily rebuilt. I suggest getting new hoses and replacing the aluminum nipples. My upgrade was after 30+ years of manual steering and went with my 5.0 upgrade. All my parts, except pump, were sourced from a junk car. I did the rebuild except for the box. The tie rods and idler arms were replaced. She handles amazingly with no slop or leaks. To be fair, the rest of the suspension is from Total Control. http://www.stangerssite.com/ Micah
Almost everything on my car was worn out when I got it, except the steering box. I think it was empty, as I put over 100 pumps of grease into it before it started to come out the bolt hole (grease gun is small, and old too). After replacing my idler bushing, one inner tie rod end, and both outer, my steering had zero play. I like the way it steers......but I dont autocross or anything close to that. It did not have a PS pump or bracket, so I used a Saginaw pump out of a old Ford van that had a 351. The Jury is still out on that pump though.....I havent been able to take it on the freeway to see if the over boosted feel was fixed by adding washers to the bypass valve. I dont think I will ever drive this car enough to wear out any of the steering stuff.
