Symptoms
Cracks in the frame around the steering-box mounts, a loose-feeling steering box, or wandering steering on a truck with big tires.
The fix, step by step
- Clean the frame around the steering box and inspect it closely.
- Have any cracks stopped and repaired, then weld on a fabricated reinforcement plate, which several 4x4 fabricators sell for the 80.
- While you're there, check the box mounting bolts and the upper Panhard-rod frame mount.
Tools & part numbers
- Welder and grinder (or a fab shop)
- reinforcement plate
- torque wrench.
Where to buy the parts
Elliptical frame scab plate (generic weld-on plate, not 80-specific)Metal Tech 4x4 ↗Amazon ↗
Power steering gear seal kit, FJ80/FZJ80/LX450 1990–97 (while the box is out)Cruiser Corps ↗Amazon ↗
Hunting a used or discontinued part? Search eBay Motors for Toyota Land Cruiser 80 Series parts →
Rated for a competent home mechanic with a decent tool kit. Confirm torque figures, fluids and procedures against the factory service manual for your VIN, support the truck on stands rather than a jack, and work at your own risk (disclaimer). Some parts links are affiliate links, which pay us a small commission at no cost to you.