Need help with Ford Steering Boxes

I have a 1949-1953 Ford pickup steering box. Great condition. I am not sure what to charge for it. On Ford Barn a guy advised me to get in touch with Mel Gross. I have e tried but can not find him. I would appreciate any help locating him or figuring what this piece is worth. Thanks. Jack 810-441-1065

 

I've bought them for as little as $75 in sorta rough but functional condition and as high as $300 recently rebuilt, pulled from a restored truck getting a new street rod chassis.

 

Mel unfortunately passed away a couple of years ago and his business is now run by his son Randy. I have heard nothing but positive comments about the boxes he modifies for Model A's. I didn't need one but went by his shop to check it out, I was VERY impressed. His information is below:

Mel's Model A Parts & Services
Randy Gross
714-292-8660
melmodela@aol.com


Charlie Stephens

 

'48-'52 is an F1 and '53-'55 and '56 is an F-100. 2 different steering boxes.

Dave

 

Have you tried Neal Jennings? nhrp32@att.net In MHOP he's the best in the old car steering box business.

 

I buy them at swap meets if they are cheap enough and seem decent. But I won't give more than $30 for them because even when they turn well, once you get them apart there is always something wrong with them. Chipped or galled gears and races are the norm. To get top dollar for it you'll have to take it apart and verify things are good.

 

A while ago I sold a F100 box in response to a wanted add that Mel or maybe his Randy son posted on the Barn. Told them what I had and how much I wanted for the box. They told me I wasn't asking enough and they paid me more. Tells me all I need to know about their integrity. If I needed a box rebuilt I wouldn't hesitate to get with them. JMO.