Help with Steering Linkage Problem

[Charley Brown]

I picked up a '76 a couple months ago, I love this truck, but I have a little problem I was hoping I could get some help with. I hate to ask for advice as my first post, but it is what it is, plus I don't really have much to contribute this early in the game.

Anyway, a tie rod of my steering linkage needs replacing, the gasket or whatever connecting two pieces is worn out and causing a good amount of play in my steering. The problem is the steering linkage is not stock so I don't know the exact part I need to get. I've taken it to two guys who do alot of modifications on early Broncos and neither one have any idea what type of system I currently have on there. So I was hoping one of you guys might be able to tell me what I currently have on there, saving me from having to install an entire new steering linkage.

Pictures are below, the red arrow points to the piece that needs replacing.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Jeff76]

First of all, welcome to the board! And don't worry about asking questions, that what we do here. I've learned a ton from these guys.

I don't think what you have it a standard off the shelf linkage, and I'll tell you why: You do not have a standard Bronco steering box. I've attached a picture of the stock one out of my '76 for your reference.

The key will be to find out what box you have (and I'm sure someone will chime in and tell you), and then fab something up.

 

[thegreatjustino]

With the steering box mounted inside the frame, you most likely have the F100 box which requires a shorter drag link.

From the look of yours, I'd say you have one from Wildhorses:

http://www.wildhorses4x4.com/product/Adj_Drag_Link_P_S_F100_Kit/bronco_Power_Steering_Kits

I'd call them and see what they can tell you about replacing the bushing.

 

[ol gray mare]

You have the same steering set up that I have. F100 2 wheel drive steering box. As was said, because it's mounted inside the frame you need a shorter drag link. I just used my stock one by cutting, it threading the ends and using a stock bronco tie rod adjuster/coupler. Voila! an adjustable drag link cheap.

 

[Charley Brown]

Awesome, thanks for the replies, appreciate it a ton. I'm gonna get right on this. Can't wait to drive it with this fixed, gonna be so much better, and I won't feel like I'm coming close to risking my life while driving on the interstate.

@Jeff76 is that white part I see in your picture a steering stabilizer? How much better does it drive with that on it?

I knew the 4x4 shop near me was just trying to get my money when they suggested replacing the whole steering linkage because they couldn't identify what I currently had. $1K for a sub $100 fix.... yea right.

 

[Jeff76]

Awesome, thanks for the replies, appreciate it a ton. I'm gonna get right on this. Can't wait to drive it with this fixed, gonna be so much better, and I won't feel like I'm coming close to risking my life while driving on the interstate.

@Jeff76 is that white part I see in your picture a steering stabilizer? How much better does it drive with that on it?

I knew the 4x4 shop near me was just trying to get my money when they suggested replacing the whole steering linkage because they couldn't identify what I currently had. $1K for a sub $100 fix.... yea right.

Yep, its a stabilizer. I wouldn't be without one, but many folks here think they are unnecessary. It just eliminates the small road feedback, and makes for smoother handling. I see you have the bracket on the frame, and the positioner for a bracket on your draglink.