I purchased a rebuilt power steering valve and ram off of ebay (I know, :nono: I'm an idiot). I installed them both yesterday. The valve wasn't prebalanced. After installation the car wouldn't turn to the right, so I followed the balancing instructions, but, apparently, I turned the adjusting nut a little too far as the ram wouldn't move the way I wanted it to, and power steering fluid started gushing out of the adjusting nut. After this happened, there was no stopping the leak, so we had to reinstall the original so I could drive home. Apparently, I now have a very expensive core. I emailed the seller to see if he could warranty it, but haven't heard from him.
The day before (Saturday), I helped a friend install the same parts on a '79. They were purchased from Autozone. They didn't look nearly as pretty (the valve had been painted after being rebuilt, rubber and all), but the valve was prebalanced and worked with out a hitch.
I really should learn from my experiences. Most of the parts I purchase on ebay end up costing me a lot more money in the long run than if I just spent a little more money up front, and bought from a reputable vendor.

 

Damn - that sux.
I rebuilt my ram - and previous owner installed a rebuilt valve - and
I STILL have leaks. GRRRRRRR :mad :mad

I have actually contemplated a manual steering setup.
The only good thing about that is that the wife won't want to drive her. :lol: :yesnod:

Good luck sorting out the issues. :seeya

 

I replaced my control valve and ram with one from AutoZone three years ago and they still work fine. The price was very good and they are guaranteed for life. :thumbs:

 

The seller says the valve will be warrantied and I'll get a replacement. :hurray: Hopefully, I'll be able to get this one balanced properly.

 

Thats great.. lucky with that one. I prefer to buy my parts locally if at all possible. Less hassle