BJ73 steering box rebuild... or not (2 Viewers)

[AussieTLC]

Hi guys,

I have a problem that has been driving me mad over the past few months.
I'm constantly having to adjust the steering wheel as I drive - there is a lot of play there.
It is especially noticable at higher speeds.

Things I have already done to try to correct this...

1) wheels balanced and aligned (twice) - by reputable mechanics
2) all new tie rod ends
3) both front L+R new bearings
4) adjusted the screw on top of the steering box
5) new steering damper
6) flushed and filled with new power steering fluid

There is also a groan coming from the power steering pump on steering - most noticable at 2000rpm.

There is some play in the u-joint at the firewall but several people have commented that it is not enough to cause the problem.

I've been told it is the box and that I may have knackered it by over-adjusting the screw on top.

There are no leaks.

It seems like the box is the issue - a lot of play in the steering wheel before the wheels turn.

Any advice? I've been quoted $2500 to replace the box and rebuild the pump but before I do this I was wondering if anyone can help?
Myself and a mate are prepared to do it ourselves but not if it's very high tech and/or required specialised equipment.

Thanks!
Grant

 

[Hulsty]

Way over priced rip off!! There is nothing special about a BJ73 steering box, same one on all the other 70 series and 60 series more or less. I have a later model HZJ75 steering box on mine, bolted straight on no problem, cheap and easy to get. Basic seal kt for the pump is $80 plus bearings.

Does the groan sound like the relief valve? Similar sound as to when you hold it at full lock and give it some revs ?

 

[dabasscow]

OFten it is the drag link from the steering box to the wheel, there is 2 links that have adjustment (big screw type thingy inside the link it self at each end), some people like a little of play in these joints to reduce the harshness coming up through the wheel off road, I prefer to keep them with minimal movement, there is a spring in side the joint from memory that is supposed to help with the harshness.
$2500 ripp off, RRP for you box recoed through Fulcrum $780.

IF you have over adjusted the box, normally when you get to full lock it won;lt like it, most wear is in the centre of the worm drive, over adjustment will get really firm at near full lock as this part of the drive is not used as often.

 

[dabasscow]

Pump is about $440 new

 

[NGray]

Been trying to take play out of steering in Toyota pick up an was concerned about over tightening. Didn't know about feeling with full lock. Thanks! Hijacked sorry. Been trying to tighten my 73 box as well, very minimal play but wanted to tighten it up. Can't get the bloody bolt to loosen!

 

[dabasscow]

No problem Ngray, does depend on how much wear is in the box. single hex deep socket with extention and breaker bar to crack that nut. may work with a normal socket depending on how much the screww is hanging out.

 

[AussieTLC]

Thanks everyone,

Think ill give it a go. If I stuff it up then I haven't lost much - just go straight to a new/reco box.
BTW the mechanic I visited said I wrecked it by over tightening the adjusting screw - is this right?

Also my part supplier can't find a new power steering pump - the motor is a 13BT. Any leads?
The groan/vibration is quite loud.

Thanks again
Grant

 

[dabasscow]

Pedders list a part number 1810 for the B series engines 1984-87, with a remote resoviour.

 

[dabasscow]

and yes if you screw that screw in to far it will cause damage, I'd adjust no more than 1/2 a turn at a time and go lock to lock and check it doesn't feel to firm in the lesser worn parts of the box.

 

[Strick]

I have fitted an 80 series steering box to my Bundera (petril 22r), bolts straight up

 

[Christopher Inch]

Thanks everyone,

Think ill give it a go. If I stuff it up then I haven't lost much - just go straight to a new/reco box.
BTW the mechanic I visited said I wrecked it by over tightening the adjusting screw - is this right?

Also my part supplier can't find a new power steering pump - the motor is a 13BT. Any leads?
The groan/vibration is quite loud.

Thanks again
Grant

How did you go with the steering box? I am currently facing the same issue with mine and am contemplating rebuilding it.