GQ Leaking steering box - repair or replace??

[SiRGsR]

I have a leaking steering box on my GQ at the steering column end and it's starting to show oil from the front wheel arch so I will need to fix it soon.
Has anyone had a crack at repairing one? I've heard that it's as easy as splitting the box open and changing the 'o' ring with one the same size, also I heard that the kits aren't worth the money or effort to have a go urself..
If u have tackled this common problem could I get a heads up on special tools or pullers, maybe things to watch out for?
If not I'll have a crack and might get a thread up in the DIY section
Cheers :)

[patch697]

I'd replace it with a GU box mate, they're stronger & bolt in place of the GQ box with no mods needed

[SiRGsR]

I was reading a few threads about that and it was mentioned to change tie rod ends or some insert so it's compatible.. If there is no easy fix I would prob go down that path but if there is an easy fix and I can save $300 i'll do that.. Is there a change in handling or just a more reliable unit?

[nissannewby]

The later GQs had the larger box on them they are physically bigger in every way. If you can grab yaself a manual and some seals then there is no reason why you wouldnt be able to have a crack yaself and save yaself some dollars. If you do have the earlier smaller box then sourcing a larger one would be recommended

[SiRGsR]

89' SWB, so yeah early model..

[BigMav]

Be interested to see what you do either way mate show us some pics if you can as I have an 89 model too, same leak, I was wondering if I should upgrade to a bigger unit just the other day.

[SiRGsR]

I don't mind topping up the fluid and letting it dribble out, the mud soaks most of it up, but as i said i can see the 'wet patch' seeping down from the wheel arch.. I think it'll be pretty easy to fix, I'll have a go next week. Heading out Sunday to test out the new reco box

[kelly]

I currently have the power steering box out. It's not a hard job to get it out. Same leak as everyone else. I picked up one from the wreckers it's the bigger one for $150. Just try not to wreck the shaft seal as were having difficulty finding a replacement.also if anyone is keen on recoing one you can buy my old one and give it a crack so your vehicle isn't off the road for too long.

[97_gq_lwb]

I used nulon power steering stop leak in one a few years back and it stopped the leak after a few weeks.
Seals get old and shrink dry out etc this stuff just gets into the rubber softens it up again and makes it swell .

[Robo]

I believe if they leak to much, for to long, oil can drip down into front panard bush and start to destroy it.
So guess it worth doing asap.

I have asked a couple of mechanics about this larger box and the opinion was.
Smaller 1 is strong enough.
"It's only the off RD heavy duty guys that may need something bigger and better".
"so I'm told".
dont shoot the messenger.
I'm happy to hear why bigger is better "v" the smaller unit.
but please explain why its better as I have considered this upgrade myself.
I did look at a steering componite parts list at local shop recently and think I not to hard to do the change over as described.
up grades always cost more anyway you look at it.
cheers

[kelly]

Got the diagram print out of parts off the shop yesterday.will scan it and upload it when I get a chance.has the part numbers on it as well. I'm not sure why the bigger one is better.it's the only one the wreckers had when I was there that's why I got it.

[Robo]

Cool.
let us know how it goes.

[redmav88]

Seal on input shaft leaking - the box is out and dissambled up to the point where I have the wormshaft and piston and the rear cover which contains the seal (no Nissan manual breakdown past this point). I assume that this section contains the valves and torsion bar that operated the power assist to the worm drive piston.
Has anyone taken this section of the steering box apart?
Are any parts diagrams - disassembly instructions available?