Anyone replaced the steering box on a 2000 F350? Need tips!

Maintenance & Repairs
1

Hey fellow truck owners,

I’m reaching out because I’m in the process of either replacing or upgrading the steering gearbox on my 2000 Ford F350, and I could really use some advice. I’ve been reading through various forums, and it seems like there are a lot of factors to consider when it comes to this part.

What I’m Dealing With

  • Current symptoms: Lately, I’ve been experiencing some strange vibrations and a bit of a wandering feeling while driving, especially at higher speeds. It’s becoming a bit concerning and makes me think it’s time for an upgrade.

  • Aftermarket vs. OEM: I’ve seen a bunch of options out there, from OEM parts to various aftermarket brands that promise better steering performance. Any recommendations on brands? Are OEM parts worth the extra cost?

Questions I Have

  1. Installation: For those who have done this before, how tricky is the installation? Do I need any special tools?
  2. Common Issues: What are some common mistakes to avoid during the swap? I’ve read about alignment issues afterward; will I need to get it properly aligned, or can I do it myself?
  3. Upgrades: If anyone has upgraded to a better steering box, what changes did you notice? Was it worth it?

Additional Thoughts

  • I’m not planning on doing any heavy modifications, but if there are suggestions that could improve handling without going overboard, I’d love to hear those too.
  • Any links to guides or video tutorials would also be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance for all your help! Looking forward to your advice and shared experiences.

2

I’ve replaced the steering box on my 2000 F350. Common symptoms include a loose steering wheel and wandering on the road. Check for leaks too; that’s usually a bad sign!

3

Ah, the classic F350 steering issues. I found that most problems stemmed from worn-out bushings. Changing those before they go can save you the hassle of a box replacement!

4

That’s a great point! It can be easier to maintain than replace if caught early. I wish I’d known sooner!

5

Symptoms like clunking noise while turning usually indicate that the steering box is going bad. It’s crucial to catch it early to avoid further steering issues!

6

True! Neglect can lead to costly repairs down the line. Just did mine a few months ago; it was a nightmare before that.

7

Don’t forget to check the power steering fluid regularly. Low fluid can really put stress on the steering box!

8

So true! I learned that the hard way. Check it before any road trip! It’s cheap insurance.

9

I wonder if the aftermarket boxes are worth it. Are they reliable compared to OEM pieces?

10

I think some aftermarket brands have improved quality, but there’s always a risk with non-OEM parts. Do your research first!

11

The debate on OEM versus aftermarket is as old as time. But are we being too picky when it comes to our F350s?

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12

Maybe, but these trucks deserve the best! We rely on them too much to settle for subpar parts.

13

That’s a solid idea! Sometimes, two heads are better than one, especially with the steering box. I used my dad’s help too!

14

On a lighter note, if my steering box had a personality, I think it would be a drama queen. Always acting up at the worst times!

1 Like
15

Great choice! I’ve heard good things about Borgeson. Did you do the install yourself?

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16

I replaced mine last year and I used an A1 Cardone box. It’s not bad for the price, but I agree, Borgeson is a top choice for performance!

17

Honestly, if you’re towing or hauling, upgrading is a must. The stock box can get sloppy after a while. I do recommend stepping up to a better brand!

3 Likes
18

Exactly! That’s why I’m looking at options now. What’s involved in the installation process?

19

Installation isn’t too bad! Just take your time and make sure you have all the tools ready. You’ll need a pitman arm puller, and a service manual is helpful too.

6 Likes
20

I agree with richard37! Make sure to check out some YouTube videos, they really helped me during my installation!