1966 Gearbox

[a1enginr]

I have a 1966 Coupe that needs the front-end aligned after changing tie-rod ends. Shop said that there was too much play in gearbox and needed to be replaced. I crossed the numbers on the gearbox to a 1998-2002 Isuzu Trooper. The car was originally manual steering and so my question: could I replace the gearbox with a '66 Ford power steering gearbox? Would it bolt in and connect to the rest of the steering? Thanks for your help!

 

[2+2GT]

The 64-66 gearbox was externally identical whether it was 4- or 5-turn.

Before trashing a $400 part, you should adjust it as per the Ford manual. I'll bet in the last 40+ years it's been adjusted "0" times, and a bearing and gear preload adjustment would likely reduce your play about 90%. Don't try this without the book, though, improper adjustment will destroy the gearbox, and might kill you. Re-filling it with proper steering gear grease wouldn't hurt, either.