Steering gearbox

[will]

I'm looking for a new steering box. The chassis is a 1965 Beetle. I found this TRW gearbox at http://carcraftstore.com/abrandnewtrwsteeringbox.aspx. Lots better price than OEM boxes. Anyone used the TRW box?

I tried adjusting the sector shaft to no avail. If I pull the box, I intend to replace it, as I have limited tools and place to work here in Rockport. Dang steering box has lots of slack in it.

[Bryan Porter]

I have used one with no problems some people don't like them
you have to put 90 wt. oil in them as they come dry.

[Bill K]

I'm one of those that doesn't like TRW steering boxes. Mine started leaking amost immediately. I'd opt for a good used original or an OEM if I were doing it again.

[Jack Duncan]

I have known people to use TRW boxes (Other than VW) and it is best to use 90w oil mixed half and half with STP (Motor honey). They seem to work just fine.

[will]

I have known people to use TRW boxes (Other than VW) and it is best to use 90w oil mixed half and half with STP (Motor honey). They seem to work just fine.

STP.....I didn't realize it was still on the market. I ordered the box from the link I posted. Within a couple hours I received an email the box was shipped. Very impressed with the promptness. I was thinking 90w synthetic might do well in the box. I'll have to look for some STP.

[Jack Duncan]

Not sure about the brand STP, but I'm sure you can buy something comparible.

[BrianB]

Some people fill them with grease as well.

[Bryan Porter]

grease will not get in the bearings as well as oil.

[Ken]

I put a TRW box on less than a year ago and it is already got so much slack I can't hardly drive my car. I had followed the sellers instructions and loaded it with grease, not 90wt.
I have an used OEM box on its way to me now. I plan to open it up, give it a good internal cleaning and fill it with 90wt, as Mr Porter has suggested.

I have also played with the box adjustments, top screw and front set bolt, but all I can feel from that these is a tightening or loosening in the turning. No amount of adjustment changes the amount of wheel slop.

I hope the used OEM box is better.

[Bill K]

Have you checked to be sure your steering arm is tight on the shaft? Mr Porter discovered mine to be loose when I was having trouble adjusting my box.

[will]

Got the box today. Pulled the rubber plugs and tried to put gear oil in to no avail. Called the place I ordered it from....they had it filled with a mixture of oil and grease. So, I installed it. Wow, sure is nice not to have all that slack in the steering wheel. I'm gonna open the old one and see just what is wearing and causing the slack. I'll post when I do so.