79 Bronco power steering problem

[surewhynot]

I have a 79 Bronco that I am throwing together so the kids can have a woods buggy. I'm running into a problem with the power steering. It only has power when you turn right. This leads me to think it is in the box and not the pump. Opinions?

Thanks, Tony

 

[blacksnapon]

Yeah, the pump only supplies the pressure, the box distributes it according to steering request.

 

[BKW]

It's the wonderful Ford steering gear box. Don't bother rebuilding it either, get a rebuilt unit from Napa...better quality than the ones from autozone or the other gypo sellers. To remove the Pitman arm, you'll need a pickle fork = Pitman arm puller. Also pay close attention to the 3 little pigs, the 3 bolts that hold the box to the frame rail, the bolts may be broken = common. The frame may be cracked, too. Just like the crappy gearbox, the 3 little pigs, a cracked frame on Bronco's or F100/150's is somewhat common.

 

[mrfixit]

I'm so glad we got you guys on here for advice like this... thanks!

 

[surewhynot]

Thanks for the input guys. Thats what I was thinking, but I wanted the opinions of those more experienced. I guess I'll have to buy a reman box. I was thinking about the junkyard, but I'd probably get junk lol. Thanks again and keep up the good work.

 

[mrfixit]

Well? Did ya get it?

This post serves two purposes: 1.) I get the answer I'm looking for, and B.) I no longer have to see a post that reads "ryan is my hero"

 

[surewhynot]

Yup, I got a rebuilt. $229 from Napa. Works great. Power steering both ways.

And whats wrong with Ryan being somebodies hero?

 

[mrfixit]

I should have considered the source....

 

[surewhynot]

UPDATE:

The reman box is leaking already. Not bad, but enough to bother me. I called NAPA yesterday and they will have a replacement for me Monday. I really shouldn't bother, because the Bronco will never see on road use, but a warranty is a warranty.

 

[bowtiehatr]

tony i found some quality steering boxes for the big broncs. psc motorsports. they seem to do great work and the prices are not bad.

http://www.pscmotorsports.com/index.php?cPath=137_57