Steering Issues

Discussion in 'General Ranchero Help' started by rollachristoph, Jul 4, 2024.

  1. rollachristoph

    rollachristoph In First Gear

    Messages:
    15
    Location:
    Las Vegas, NV
    Having replaced practically the entire front end/ suspension system, I am still at a loss as to why the steering on my '66 Ranchero just feels loose as all-get-out. I've already replaced tie rods, sway bar, upper/ lower control arms & bushings, Pitman arm, front end alignment, power steering pump,etc. The only thing I havent messed with so far is the steering gearbox.

    I've been told they are adjustable, but I dont see how. When I get above 65 mph, it's like steering control disappears, & it wants to drift.

    Any other possible suggestions/ solutions I should explore, before I go on the hunt for a new steering gearbox???
     
  2. Clark

    Clark In Maximum Overdrive

    Messages:
    2,986
    Location:
    Brighton, Colorado
    What about a rag joint? Does the '66 have one. Rag joint failure is typical.
     
  3. Kiwirancher

    Kiwirancher In Fourth Gear

    Messages:
    333
    Location:
    Gisborne , New Zealand .
    No rag joint in a 66 if it has the original box . When I got mine I removed the steering box and had a friend ( mechanic ) look at . It needed new bearings - one was collapsed. Made a big difference . The only adjustment is with the screw ( bolt ? ) and locknut on top of the box but be careful not to tighten it too much , you could do more harm than good .
    Denis.
     
  4. Parker Harger

    Parker Harger In Second Gear

    Messages:
    68
    Location:
    Boise Idaho
    I got a new steering gearbox from Redhead. Mine is a 72 but it made all the difference. I had so much play in it.
     
  5. rollachristoph

    rollachristoph In First Gear

    Messages:
    15
    Location:
    Las Vegas, NV
    Thanks for the input, Gentlemen. Seeing as it's the original steering gearbox, I'll have to ask around to find an old-school mechanic to rebuild it.
     
  6. Kiwirancher

    Kiwirancher In Fourth Gear

    Messages:
    333
    Location:
    Gisborne , New Zealand .
    Lot of fun taking it out - managed to do it without removing the radiator but found it best to remove the seat !
    Denis.
     
  7. RANCHEROROB

    RANCHEROROB In Maximum Overdrive GOLD MEMBER

    Messages:
    3,768
    Location:
    Pueblo de Los Angeles, Aztlan
    If your box is shot and you have manual steering you should look into a Borgeson power steering set up.
    It's not cheap but worth the price if you have a nice car and MUCH Safer that original box.
     
  8. rollachristoph

    rollachristoph In First Gear

    Messages:
    15
    Location:
    Las Vegas, NV
    Vehicle has original power steering; I'll look into Redhead steering boxes for compatibility; Bigger issue at the moment, is getting a custom-built aluminum radiator/ cooling fans, nothing aftermarket matches up with the dimensions! :mad:
     

Share This Page