71 K20 Reman steering box

[tinman_local2]

Considering ordering a remanufactured steering box for my 71 K20. Can't decide if I should get the later model close ratio, like from a '78 or just get the OE. I'm still going to use the 17" wheel. I've heard it can be a little darty with the bigger wheel and close ratio box. Anyone experience this?

[dmjlambert]

For me the whole point of getting the old truck is so I can have a slow steering ratio and manual brakes and tank that I can hear gas sloshing around. I like that sort of thing. Are you thinking of getting a new one because it's leaking, or other reasons?

[tinman_local2]

It was leaking badly and very sloppy to drive. So I thought, why not throw some new seals in it and tighten it up a bit. That's quite a job and I didn't get something right, because I have no power steering now. I'm just wanting something that's safe to put on the road. I've had a few of these and I don't expect it to drive like new, but needs to be able to stay on the road safely.

[68 P.O.S.]

Here you go https://redheadsteeringgears.com/pro...olet-c-series/

[lil hoodlum]

Originally Posted by tinman_local2

It was leaking badly and very sloppy to drive. So I thought, why not throw some new seals in it and tighten it up a bit. That's quite a job and I didn't get something right, because I have no power steering now. I'm just wanting something that's safe to put on the road. I've had a few of these and I don't expect it to drive like new, but needs to be able to stay on the road safely.

I have manual steering in my 1968. I have replaced the steering gear box twice with the OE. I replaced it the second time trying to fix an issue, turns out the steering box was not the issue. I can tell you the OE manual steering box is considerably more than a power steering unit. The OE works just fine for my application.

[IronCanine]

I have used RedHead on a build and did a factory finishes resto with Marty at PowerSteering.com on another. Both close ratio conversions. Super happy with both. Marty also did a power steering pump resto for us. Both PS boxes in 4WDs with factory wheel/tire combos. Would do either again without reservation.

Edit: I will add that the K5 (Redhead), while not "darty", did ask for more attention at highway speed than the K10 which was pretty rock solid. I don't think the extra foot of wheelbase would account for that. Both trucks otherwise identical and "new" in suspension and driveline. Also here's a thread with some info that might help in improving driving feel on a 4WD:

https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/....php?p=8923784