steering box NG, rebuild or upgrade? 61 cj5

My steering box had some play in it, so I adjusted the play out, but it binds when turned in either direction. I guess that means it needs a sector shaft and bushings. My question is... Do I;
1. replace with a stock box
2. rebuild my existing box
3. upgrade it with some stronger setup

Please feel free to advise me on where the best place to get whatever your suggestions are.

I am interested in bolt on parts for this and would prefer not to go with power steering. I have a 134 F head, a Rancho 2" suspension lift and a 6 1/2' plow hanging on the front end. I would like some better mechanical advantage on the front wheels with all that weight up front.

Thanks.

 

Just curious, what's it binding on?

 

Thanks for the good information. I probably do have the adjustment too tight, but I was trying to take some of the slack out of the steering. I am sure it is worn.

The binding is within the box on each extreme turn, and only started when I snugged up the adjustment, so that is obvious.

I read a little about the Saginaw replacement, but I though it was a power box? What donot cars would I be looking for to get a manual Saginaw box?

I also haven't heard people talking about how many turns lock to lock.

I am a familiar story. As far as skills, I am pretty sure I could do the conversion, (fabricating, welding etc.), it is time that seems to be my biggest challenge. My 32 Ford street rod project and my 65 Chevelle 2-dr Wagon, which I plan to drive on the Hot Rod Power Tour ride this coming June are both taking a back seat to this Jeep. I have a replacement T90 under construction, but the rest of it is ready to go.

Thanks again.

 

Not an expert on the Ross steering, but some here have suggested a later V6 Ross box as an upgrade for the early boxes. Success there would likely depend on finding a Ross box in good condition from within a few years of a 71 V6 CJ (the last year of production for the Ross setup).

The obvious source for a manual Saginaw box is from a '72 or later CJ with manual steering. With Saginaw or Ross, you'll likely still have to rebuild it, or at least use new seals and adjust it.

hth!

 

I just went through this on my 67 CJ. The original Ross box was hammered.. I was going to do a saginaw conversion, but figured rebuilding the Ross would be cheaper.. I was wrong.. I sent the box out to a place in californee, and had them rebuild it.. Parts are very hard to find.. Then I found out that the pitman arm was junk.. I had a jard time finding another. In retrospect it wouldn't have been any more expensive doing the saginaw thing.. And now I read in JP mag where someone [Advance Adapters?] makes a conversion kit for the saginaw deal.. If it were me I buy the kit and convert.

I have since sold my 67 and have a 75 w/power steering. I'l never have another manual again.

 

herm makes a kit as well.

http://hermtheoverdriveguy.com/id83.htm

 

I recall reading that Herm's kit will not work with the F134. Just check before you buy.

 

Very good info. Thanks to all. I will lossen up my current box to try to get through the winter, then plan to do a conversion to P/S Saginaw before next year.