I have a 2001 quad cab with 142,000 on it and the steering box has a bad oil leak. It has gotten to the point that I go through a pint of power steering fluid every day. How big of deal is it to replace the leaking seal? Do I have to take the box off to do it or can I simply pop the old seal out and put a new one in. I could deal with the leak when I only had to put fluid in once a week but I am to the point that now it is every day so there can not be much left of the old seal. Thanks for any help you can give me.

 

The lower sector seal can be replaced in vehicle. Must have good puller. Remove outer seal and snap ring. Then turn gear to lock and pop inner seal out. Front seal is large O ring and requires removal. Carefull.

 

The auto zone part number is 8717. It is an easy job to do. But when you put the puller on the pittman arm tighten it as much as you can and if it doesent come off get an air chisle and there is just enought room to get to it and it should pop right off. I hope this was a help.

 

I would replace steering box. Most likely worn out anyway, these seals don't usually leak that bad unless you have other issue with box. Cracked cover or worn out bearings and sector gear.

 

Befor i replaced my seal i could pour it in and it would pour out on the ground almost as fast box and all the parts were just fine.