Steering box differences

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Griff

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Hey guys
Sorry if this has been posted before, but I have 2 questions. I have a 79 and I’m wondering the differences between the 73-87 steering boxes. Local parts store says only 77-79 will fit my truck but the only difference I can see (from online details) between mine and the 80+ is the hose threads. Mine are imperial and the newer ones are metric. Buddy of mine has a box that he’d give me for a case of beer off an 83, and the store wants $250 something for a reman unit.
My sector shaft moves up and down into the case when I turn one way and PO had the adjustment screw bottomed out. It’s my assumption that the gears/bearings etc are probably shot anyway and I should just get something else instead of rebuilding my current one. Any advice would be appreciated. If it’s simply a matter of changing hoses to fit the 83 box I’d much rather do that. From what I’ve read on here reman units are pretty hit or miss. Thanks
Griff
 

bucket

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Yep, the newer box will have metric fittings that use an o-ring. There's actually adapters out there so you don't even have to mess with changing hoses.
 

Griff

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Awesome thank you! I might just get the whole pump off him. Either way it’s cheaper than 250!
 

bucket

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Just keep in mind, 4x4 boxes have a different sector shaft than a 2wd box.
 

75gmck25

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