steering help

[ostncoln]

hey guys, my steering on my 71 will stick sometimes almost like it is stuck on something. i notice it the most when making the turn backing out of my driveway. do you think this is a pump or steering box problem? i was planning on changing the pump anyway but should i replace the box at the same time? also will the later model boxes like up to 87 fit?
thanks

[cdowns]

wouldnt hurt to check your balljoints tierod ends and idler arm //when was the last time you greased them?

also some guys try and "adjust" the steering box and by turning down the bolt and tightened too much will cause this type of problem

[ostncoln]

so you dont think its the pump?it only does it at low (idle) speed. i am waiting on a front end rebuild kit and was just thinking i might just swap the box. so will the later model steering box fit?

[68gmsee]

I'd check all of the components mentioned above first, but in my experience, if they all check out good I'd suspect the gearbox. I've had them do similar before.

In my case, it would lock (stick) while turning and I'd have to turn the engine off and work it back. There's worm gears, ball bearings and other parts that may be damaged internally.

One check you could do is to raise the front of the truck and turn the wheels to either extreme to see if you can duplicate it.

[68gmsee]

I reread your last post and you say it only does it at low speeds or idling... That could possibly be slipping belt or pump failure. Hard to say, but the pump is cheaper to replace.

[Wrenchbender Ret]

The later model steering gears fit but some have a different size in shaft. You would need the rag joint to go with it. About1 19 80 up used different fittings for the hoses. You would have to use different hoses.