302 swap steering issues

[Mrthechicken102]

I recently finished my 302 swap but have now found that my steering box has started leaking. Is there anyway to relocate the gear box either lower to fully clear the exhust or on the outside of the frame? I have already jacked the engine up by about an inch and it is still clipping the exhust manifold just a bit.

 

[franklin2]

You can't move the steering box, it will foul the geometry of the steering linkage. Keep studying the situation and photos of these swaps. It has been done hundreds of times with success, so something is different about your setup.

You can off-center the engine some for clearance. The factory did it all the time.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

Most (myself included) have left the factory box in place and it works great. Its the same box used on pretty much any Ford truck that isn't a flipnose so it is plenty strong for a Ranger.

I know some with more unconventional steering boxes swap to a Toyota box that goes outside the frame which will necessitate a lot more work as you have to redesign your steering. I know @bobbywalter has mentioned this before. Be patient it could be awhile before he sees this, he is pretty busy.