j10 power steering gear question

[Dirtfarmer]

My steering gear on my 1986 jeep j10 is leaking at both ends and needs replaced or fixed. The number on it is 5689010. My question is should I just replace it with a rebuilt replacement or is there a better alternative. For instance does a j20 have a heavier box and will it easily replace the j10 one.

[Carnuck]

J20 box (late '86-88s) has a bigger piston and they are wanted by the big tire crowd.

[Dirtfarmer]

how much change would there be to put a j20 gear on

[tgreese]

The only difference would be in durability, I presume. I'd have to check the book to see if the in/out shaft sizes are the same.

If you don't want a generic reman, these are said to be good: http://www.redheadsteeringgears.com/ - do a Google search about them. The response seems quite positive.

There's also the Blazer/S-10 4x4 gear, which is variable ratio. Lots of old threads about these. These have a slow ratio near the center so they are not twitchy on the road, then speed up as you turn the wheel, to make turning easier. As well as being from newer vehicles, they are also a newer design than the conventional gears, and are said to be more durable. Unfortunately they are secured with 3 bolts instead of 4, so attachment to the frame is somewhat weaker. Redtop may be able to build a variable gear in a 4 bolt case, if you ask.

[Carnuck]

Bolts in. Just slightly bigger outside