I have a 98 E250 that I use for work. The steering has never been great but after adjusting the steering box would improve for a while. Now the steering box is leaking, has anyone had similar problems with this van and what is the best fix?

 

It depends where it is leaking. Replacement seals are generally available (dealer part) but you will need some special tools if it is the sector shaft seal. Worm shaft seals are easy to replace.

 

Would I be better off to just replace the entire steering gear to improve the steering as well as fix the leak? Also if I just replace the steering gear box, is there a good way to flush out the old fluid so I don't contaminate the new box with shavings from the old one?

 

It most likely would be better if you installed a rebuilt steering gearbox. Just let the lines drain and run some clean P/S fluid thru them. A good move would be to install a power steering system filter. They are available and are installed in the RETURN line.
A few things to keep in mind, keep the steering wheel locked because excessive movement in either direction could damage the clockspring under the steering wheel.
Also, after filling the reservoir you will need to turn the steering wheel back and forth many times to get all the air out of the system. Just make sure to keep the level in the reservoir as close to full as possible when getting the air out.
If you lock the steering wheel in the straight ahead position and center the steering gear in the center of its travel ,you can feel a high spot when centered, or,count the total number of turns end to end divide the turns in half to get it centered then assemble it you should make out OK.

 

Thanks for the feedback, I have the gearbox and will try to get it done this weekend. I'm a better contractor than I am a mechanic so wish me luck.