Steering
Steering Gearbox
A steering gearbox turns the motion of your steering wheel into the side to side movement that steers the front wheels. We list 34 gearboxes from $86 to $1085 by A1 Cardone, BBB Industries, Motorcraft, Detroit Axle and SKP, with coverage for Chevrolet Camaro, Impala, Ford, Dodge and International Scout II.
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Signs of a worn gearbox
Common symptoms include extra play at the steering wheel, wandering on the highway, steering that feels heavy or tight in spots, and a wheel that does not return to center well. Power steering fluid leaking from the sector shaft seal or the input shaft seal is another frequent sign.
Worn tie rods, an idler arm or a pitman arm can also add play. Inspect the linkage and steering column joints before replacing the gearbox.
What comes with the gear
Most gearboxes in this group are power units, with a few electric designs. Package contents often include instruction sheets, a sealing kit, flushing instructions and sometimes a bolt kit. Mounting hole count varies, with three and four bolt patterns listed.
Check the fitment table for year, model, engine and drive type. Compare the hose port sizes and the input shaft splines with your old gear before you order.
Installation tips
Flush the power steering system before connecting a new gear, since old fluid and debris can damage it quickly. Follow the flushing instructions in the box. You will need a pitman arm puller to transfer or remove the pitman arm.
Center the steering before you disconnect the column so the wheel stays straight. Tighten the mounting bolts to spec, bleed the system, and get a wheel alignment after the job.
Steering Gearbox questions
Why should I flush the power steering system?
Old fluid can carry metal particles and worn seal material from the failed gear or pump. Flushing removes that debris so it does not damage the new gearbox.
Can a steering gearbox be adjusted instead of replaced?
Some gearboxes have an adjustment screw for play, but adjusting a worn gear is a short term fix and can cause binding if overdone. Leaking seals or internal wear call for replacement.
Do I need an alignment after replacing a steering gearbox?
Yes. The gearbox position and the centering of the steering affect toe and steering wheel position. An alignment keeps the wheel straight and the tires wearing evenly.