Time to Rebuild Steering

[jeds55]

It's time to rebuild the steering on my '55 pick-up. Seems that the linkage is available. But, the steering gear appears to be a different story.

An thoughts on how I might approach this project? Where I might start to look for a gear set or complete box in better shape than mine?

Thanks
Jim

[nvonada]

I am not sure what steering box you have on a 55 truck. Rebuild parts are around for many but if you don't want to deal with it I have heard good things about Lares http://www.larescorp.com/index.html. How bad is the gear?

Nathan

[jeds55]

Nathan,
Thanks for the heads-up on Lares.
You asked how bad my gear is. I currently wonder back and forth. If I pay attention, I can manage 50mph on most roads.
Thanks again,
Jim

[nvonada]

I hear you. My old bias-ply tires and worn suspension made steering a process of suggestions and hope. I finally caved and am almost done rebuilding the front suspension. My steering gear itself seems good though. Maybe if you replace worn bushings and tie rod ends you can live with the box.

Nathan

[jeds55]

Hi Nathan,
I called Lares yesterday. They said if the gear is not worn too far, they can re-work / rebuild the box. They said current turn around time is less than 3 weeks. Cost is $299.00. Studebaker International gave me the name of a gentleman in Kansas that has a bone yard of trucks. They thought he might be able to supply a replacement unit. His name is Vern Eddinger (Spelling?)
Phone 316 215 1166.
Good luck with your project. Thanks for your help with mine.
Jim

[PackardV8]

FWIW, I've got a good used '55 pickup box. It was on the truck and on the road until this year. PM me if you're interested.

BTW, while you're in there, do the wheel bearings, king pins, all four tie rod ends and the spring shackle bushings. If you do go with a used steering box, definitely replace the output shaft seal.

jack vines