Steering box bearing

[SRU1436]

Hello, I am replacing the output and input shaft seals on my OEM power steering box in my 72 C10. It appears the seals have never been replaced as the output shaft seal is hard as a rock and I’m having difficulty getting it out. In doing so, I noticed I must’ve boogered up this bear when I was dissembling it. It still rolls, so it appears the function of the bearing is not compromised. I’ve searched the interwebs and I can’t find a replacement bearing. Additionally, any recommendations how to replace the seals. I’ve followed Txfirefighter thread on replacing the seals, but can seem to get the seals out. Thanks, Matt

[dmjlambert]

When I did the Tx Firefighter procedure on mine, I believe I didn't have or prepare a bent tip screwdriver like he mentions to pull the seal out, so from the top side of the box I used a long skinny screwdriver and tapped on the end of it to drive the seals out. I don't remember how hard I had to hit it, but I don't remember being alarmed. My tendency would have been to move the tip around the seal as I go so the seal doesn't get cocked at some weird angle, but sorry I don't remember to a great amount of detail. Silly question but gotta ask since you're having trouble, you did remove the retainer clip, right? Your bearing is probably OK, that thing doesn't spin at some number of RPMs.

[SRU1436]

Originally Posted by dmjlambert

When I did the Tx Firefighter procedure on mine, I believe I didn't have or prepare a bent tip screwdriver like he mentions to pull the seal out, so from the top side of the box I used a long skinny screwdriver and tapped on the end of it to drive the seals out. Silly question but gotta ask since you're having trouble, you did remove the retainer clip, right? Your bearing is probably OK, that thing doesn't spin at some number of RPMs.

I did re,ove the retainer clip before had. And I used a long screwdriver and tried to tap it out from the other end, no luck. The seal broke at the spot I tapped it out. Besides soaking the seal area in PB Blaster, not sure what else to do. Bearing does spin freely so I’ll probably leave it. The seal on the other hand, I don’t want to chisel away at it and mar up the area for it to leak again.

[dmjlambert]

If some more working on it will not give results, what I would probably do is pry and chisel on the broken area of the seal in particular, so the seal ends up with a gap and it is c-shaped instead of a round o, then start inserting an x-acto knife between the seal and the metal. Careful with the knife, wear eye protection, and no twisting or prying with the knife. I don't know if that would work, but it's what I would try.

[SRU1436]

I’m bought a lisle seal puller, I’ll try that too. Thanks.