I have a 1979 F150 that I'm fixing up. The power steering currently does not work. I'm not sure what to do to make it work. I'm thinking the steering pump is bad but there is also a steering gear box. I don't want to replace both for no reason. Any idea?

 

A couple of quick checks are

1. Is the belt still on the pump?
2. Is there any fluid in the system?

Fairly obvious but you'd be surprised sometimes.

Your best bet may be to go out and buy a Haynes or Chilton manual for your truck and look in the relevant section. There's usually an explanation on how the system works and a troubleshooting guide.

Good luck.