A Comprehensive Guide to the 1973-1980 Buick Regal Steering Gear
Eliminate steering wander and annoying leaks by choosing the right replacement steering gear for your classic Regal.
- The most common steering gear failures on a 1973-1980 Regal are excessive play (wander) and fluid leaks.
- You must choose between a standard remanufactured unit (like Cardone or BBB) for a stock fix or a new performance unit (like Flaming River) for a handling upgrade.
- DIY replacement is possible for experienced mechanics but requires a special tool called a pitman arm puller.
- After installation, you must bleed all the air from the power steering system to prevent noise and damage to the pump.
Is Your Regal's Steering Getting Sloppy?
The steering system in the 1973-1980 Buick Regal uses a robust Saginaw-style steering gearbox. While durable, these units can develop issues after decades of service. If your classic Buick isn't handling like it used to, a worn steering gear might be the culprit. Recognizing the symptoms early can save you from bigger headaches down the road.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Steering Gear
- Excessive Steering Play: This is the most frequent complaint. You'll notice a large "dead spot" when the steering wheel is centered, requiring you to turn the wheel significantly before the car responds. This makes the car feel like it's wandering on the road.
- Power Steering Fluid Leaks: Finding puddles of reddish-brown fluid under the front of your car is a clear sign of a problem. The steering gear has seals on the input shaft (from the steering column) and the output (pitman) shaft that can wear out and leak.
- Binding or Grinding Noises: A feeling that the steering is catching, binding, or making grinding sounds when you turn the wheel can indicate internal wear or damage to the gears.
- Difficulty Steering in One Direction: If the car is much harder to steer to the left or the right, but not both, it often points to an internal issue within the steering gear itself.
Aftermarket Steering Gear Cost for 1973-1980 Buick Regal
| Part Type | Estimated Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Aftermarket (Performance) | $600 - $830 | Brand new units like those from Flaming River, often with performance improvements. |
| Remanufactured Aftermarket | $184 - $350 | The most common option from brands like Cardone and BBB Industries. A core charge usually applies. |
| Shop Labor for Installation | $250 - $500 | Labor costs vary by shop and location. The job typically takes 2-4 hours. |
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Steering Gear
Finding a brand-new OEM steering gear from GM for a car of this age is nearly impossible. The aftermarket is your primary source, offering a few distinct tiers of products.
Tier 1: New Performance Upgrade
Brand Example: Flaming River
For the owner looking to improve their Regal's handling, a new performance steering gear is the top choice. Companies like Flaming River manufacture completely new units, not rebuilt ones. These often feature stronger castings, better bearings, and, most importantly, a quicker steering ratio. A quicker ratio means fewer turns of the steering wheel are needed to go from lock-to-lock, making the car feel more responsive. This is a significant upgrade but comes at the highest price.
Tier 2: Standard Remanufactured Replacement
Brand Examples: Cardone, BBB Industries, PWR
This is the most common and budget-friendly option. Remanufacturers take original Saginaw gearboxes, disassemble them, clean the components, and replace all wear items like seals and O-rings before testing them to meet original specifications. Brands like Cardone are a very common choice for daily drivers and standard restorations. While some forum users report mixed experiences with remanufactured parts in general, they remain the standard repair method for these vehicles. These parts almost always require a "core charge," which is a deposit you get back when you return your old steering gear.
A Note on Known Issues & Recalls
There are no major recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the NHTSA for the steering gear on the 1973-1980 Buick Regal. Any recalls you might find for "Buick Regal Steering" are for much newer models (2014+) with entirely different electric steering systems and do not apply to your classic car. Problems on these older models are typically due to normal wear and tear over several decades.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a "core charge"?
A core charge is a deposit paid when you buy a remanufactured part. The "core" is your old, worn-out steering gear. Remanufacturers need these old parts to rebuild them for future customers. You get the deposit back when you send your old part back to the seller.
Is replacing a steering gear a DIY job?
This is an intermediate-level job. It's messy and requires specific tools, most importantly a pitman arm puller, to separate the steering arm from the gearbox. Without this tool, it's nearly impossible to do the job without damaging other components. If you're not comfortable with heavy, greasy parts and don't have the right tools, it's best left to a professional. The job typically takes 2-5 hours.
What is a "quick ratio" steering box?
A quick ratio box, like many offered by Flaming River, reduces the number of turns it takes to steer the wheels from one side to the other (lock-to-lock). Stock boxes might be around 4 turns, while a quick ratio box could be 2.5-3 turns. This provides a more responsive, modern steering feel and is a popular upgrade for classic cars.
Do I need to bleed the system after installing a new steering gear?
Yes, this is a critical step. Air trapped in the power steering system will cause the pump to whine and can lead to poor steering performance. The process involves filling the reservoir and, with the front wheels off the ground and the engine off, turning the steering wheel from lock to lock multiple times to force the air out. Only then should you start the engine to complete the process.
Technical Specifications
The 1973-1980 Buick Regal uses a Saginaw 800-series integral power steering gearbox. Aftermarket options are available in the stock 17.5:1 steering ratio or performance-oriented quick ratios like 14:1 or 12.7:1.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Regal's Steering Getting Sloppy?
- Common Symptoms of a Failing Steering Gear
- Aftermarket Steering Gear Cost for 1973-1980 Buick Regal
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Steering Gear
- Tier 1: New Performance Upgrade
- Tier 2: Standard Remanufactured Replacement
- A Note on Known Issues & Recalls
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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