Steering Box Replacement - AC Delco box any good?

[Mattchu60]

My steering box has a lot of play in it - I checked the rag joint and the drag link already and they are both in good shape. I have previously adjusted the allen bolt down to a tighter level but it still has a lot of play. Planning to replace it with a rebuilt unit in a month when i swap engines.

I have been on Rock Auto and they sell a AC Delco Professional Steering Box. They have some other brands as well like CarDone.

Been doing some searches on here and there is mixed opinion on the replacement boxes. Are these replacement boxes simply just a box that has been cleaned and has new seals installed? Right now I can turn the wheel from 11 to 1 o clock and the wheels don't turn, has a lot of play (its worn out). Truck is just a daily driver, no off road stuff. I just want a tight box that is takes away that loose feeling. Will I be happy with a rebuilt box from the parts store?

[walkerb]

I like my redhead box. Works well and I have no issues

[cadillac_al]

I don't think you can go wrong with AC Delco replacement parts. Any new steering box will be way better than a worn out one.

[72c105speed]

Originally Posted by cadillac_al

I don't think you can go wrong with AC Delco replacement parts. Any new steering box will be way better than a worn out one.

Not true!! A1cardone stay away far away...

[Dead Parrot]

If you have tilt column, have you checked the 4(3?) screws at the bottom of the inside of the column? If loose, they can add a lot of slop to the steering. Not sure if a standard column has the same screws.

[65standard]

I wonder if you could swap out the box for one with a closer ratio? Say something like one from an '87 Monte Carlo SS or Buick grand national?

[lilpoindexter]

I bought a power steering box for my '78 from oreilly 5 years ago. NAPA had the same descrption for the part, so i think they came from the same supplier...The description for the oreily part is different now, so i think the supplier changed. My box is still nice and tight, and no leaks....but again, i dont think its the same box anymore.

[Mattchu60]

Thanks for replies - I know the steering column is ok - actually opened the hood and turned the shaft there and can turn it around 1/8 turn without the pitman arm moving. The rag joint is ok too.

[tucsonjwt]

One of the few non OEM or Delco parts I have used was the steering box. I got one from Autozone about 10 years ago and it still works fine. I got a lot of money for the core (like $90, I think), so the new core was only about $20 net.)
Still, I would go AC Delco just out of general preference for OEM. Check out which place gives you the most for your core. You might be surprised that there is a big difference among suppliers. For $20 net I would take a chance on aftermarket.

[Scott76]

Dang, that's a good deal. Prices on rock auto seem crazy high.

[Mattchu60]

Going to order a Delco box off Rock Auto soon, hope it helps with the sloppiness. Going to put a new rag joint in too when its apart, even though the current one is ok.

[Tom]

My original box was leaking so I got a junkyard one. It doesn't leak, but I have so much play in the steering wheel it was dangerous. So I finally ordered an a/c delco rebuilt from rockauto. Its solid, very happy I spent the money.

[tucsonjwt]

Still $90 core charge at Autozone, but much more on the sale price now - $154, so $64 net. Probably could fine it cheaper elsewhere.

[Mattchu60]

Ordered the Delco Box tonight, got sucked into looking around the site and ended up spending a lot more than I planned. Also picked up a AC Delco power steering pump, new hoses and four Rancho 9000 XL shocks (they just started a rebate for $100 off 4)!

[Pontiac1976]

I wonder if you could swap out the box for one with a closer ratio? Say something like one from an '87 Monte Carlo SS or Buick grand national?

Yes E-bay had some listed 73-79 rebuild to quick ratios