Archived Crack in Steering Box Cover

[Denis]

I have a '97 4 x 4 with the original style steering box. Some how the end cap got a crack and is now leaking P. S. fluid badly. I was able to get the end cap and seal from the local Chevy dealer ( part # on end cap was a good GM number). The cap is held on by a stiff round ring that is set in a grove. These rings usually have one end at an angle so you can pry it out. The ring in my box has ends which are squared off and I can't get any thing under the ring to get it out.

I though of breaking the cap as it's aluminum but I still would not be able to get the ring out.

Any body taken this ring out or have any ideas? Sure hate to buy a new box for several hundred dollars when this one works fine except for the crack.

 

[Ron Bissett]

Flat ring retainer most are the flat type with small hole on each end ,that is for snap ring retainers they come in diffrent sizes tha fit the hole work like plyers in reverse. Or you could get some aluminum repair puty push a small bead in to the crack the when hard go over the top of bead with more puty or JB weld ect may not look so good but saves $$$ Hope this helps .

 

[Denis]

The ring I have in my box is round not the flat type. I tried several layers of industrial epoxy over the crack but it blew out first time I turned the wheel. The housing must have a substantial pressure inside.

 

[Ron Bissett]

A round one that has no Bend on one end is bad news but ,you could try a pick L shape pointed to get behind and pulling it out enough to get a tool like a normal duty screw driver behind the ring be careful as it could spring out with plenty of snap It may take time but time is money if you have to take it in for the dealer to remove it and replace the cap . Take care not to brake the flange cut for the retainer ring . LoL