IFS box leak...but different than most

[arnott1t]

I think im missing something basic.... or at least I sure hope so. I changed the IFS box on my truck today and replaced and older style 86-88 with a newer 89-95 style box. Te box bolted up great and all was well. Had enough slip in the steering shaft to accomodate the slightly longer input shaft. Once all was plumbed in I filled the reservoir with power steering juice (i now realize this needs to be ATF but don't think this is the issue) and started it up. Steering was really stiff and didn't want to move for me. Then the new box started to leak at the ball thingy coming off the input shaft. Don't have a pic but if you look at the box from the drivers side you'll see a hole with what looks like a ball bearing in it. This is leaking and bad.

Whats going on? Is this some sort of bleeder? I doubt it but I'm stumped. Did I miss the hole thing up?

Thanks,

There is a good pick of the different boxes one trail gears website to see what I mean.

This is on a toyota samuari... for what its worth.

 

[Mike C]

Saw someone with this issue on pirate, that ball is pressed into the box from the factory after it is machined. It serves no purpose and can be welded up.

 

[arnott1t]

thats what i did. Seems to be ok..