Steering box conversion

[71/454]

I have a 71 1/2 ton(soon to be a swb) with power steering, but the box is leaking down by the rag joint. Talked to a friend today who is in the transmission/steering business to see if he could just put a new seal in it. But he says the box is more than likely worn out and changing the seal won't help. A new box is over three hundred bucks. My question is this can I just swap in a box out of a 73-87 1/2 ton thats clean and not leaking? These can be had for a much more reasonable price of free or some beer. I already have the newer steering linkage anyway because I changed the spindles. Thanks

[qksilver]

I am doing that swap right now. The only difference for me is that it has metric o-ring fittings on the box for the hoses.
I will use the P/S pump off the same truck so no problems

[MDC]

I just put a 75 box on my 67 and used a 69 pressure hose. Just rebent the metal part of the return left over from the 75 and put on new rubber and clamps.

[71/454]

Ok so it does fit! Thanks guys you saved me $300

[Fatback]

Changing the seal will more than likely cure it. We did my friends Dodge P/U. The old Dodge used the same Saginaw box as our trucks.

[71/454]

Is it tough to change the seal? My friend said it has a bushing and that it's probably worn out so changing the seal wouldn't make me happy, that's why he suggested a rebuilt box.

[MDC]

My old one is smooth as silk, but leaks in the same place as yours. I don't know anything about rebuilding one and didn't have time to mess with it. I think the seal kits are about $30 or you can buy a rebuilt box. I got one for $139 at O'Rilley AP. Probly same as Advance AP.

[Fatback]

Its not a big deal to change the seal.....especially if you are going to take the box off. I did it with snap ring pliers big "channel lock pliers" and needle nose pliers.

[MDC]

Sounds good Fatback. How 'bout a "How To" thread for FAQ

[Fatback]

I will....I have to put one on a '60 Chevy sedan delivery w/ the same Saginaw box soon.