ok guys, my next thing that i wanna tackle is my steering box as it is really worn out and in dire need of replacing, i dont have the $$$ to be putting into an expensive setup so whatever i do it will have to be to just find the strongest stock box pretty much, i talked to sam at sam's offroad and he told me that right now the stock isuzu box was the best way for me to go, but i have heard of guys usin other boxes on their trucks, i know about the isuzu box and even with the big meats it does fine, its just worn out and was so even before the axle install and trail time its gotten. i just am not knowledgeable about other boxes and compatibility and am just lookin for some help or advice..... thanks

Compatibility? None. If you've got anything on there that's still Isuzu (TRE's, etc) then you're not going to find anything easier to put in than another Isuzu steering box.

With that said, there's lots of reasons to upgrade to something else - Toyota, Scout, Chevy, etc. The main reason being this: you can hydro assist other steering boxes hella easier than an Isuzu. I know that RobG's done it (and have his pics to prove it) but in looking at the guts of an Isuzu steering box, it just became very clear that any tapping and drilling of an Isuzu box was going to mean welding some fittings first (welding to cast metal = not as strong) and then tapping.

Then again, getting another steering box in there means drilling out the frame where the box bolts up. As far as I know, nothing out there will match up to the Isuzu bolt pattern.

And if anyone can contradict anything I've said I'll be pumped. Been looking for a steering upgrade for a while...
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The stock box is pretty much your *only* way to go. There is no direct replacement. Those running other boxes involve new fabrication of the mounting as well as adapting the steering column, which being the case, it really doesn't matter what box you choose to replace it with, same amount of work involved.

my advice, if you're on a budget... search the bone yards for a stock replacement with less wear and tear on it than what you've got. I've got replacement boxes used for the price tag of $50.

-Rob

I think this is a gear box on ebay right now, but I cannot remember which model year.