excessive play in the steering
#1
09-10-2007, 11:27 PM
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excessive play in the steering
so everyone knows that as vehicles age, the steering becomes looser and looser, thats just to be expected, and my truck is no exception, however im starting to think that enough is enough. i meen i can turn my wheel between 10 and 2 o clock positions freely without ANY responce...and thats at freeway speeds (65-70)
id like to reduce that alittle. i dont expect to acheive like-new tightness, hell i wouldnt even want that, i enjoy a looser steering system but i do think that where its at now is alittle out of line.
so how can i reduce that amount of play? id like to get it down to only being loose 11-1 o clock
id like to reduce that alittle. i dont expect to acheive like-new tightness, hell i wouldnt even want that, i enjoy a looser steering system but i do think that where its at now is alittle out of line.
so how can i reduce that amount of play? id like to get it down to only being loose 11-1 o clock
#2
09-10-2007, 11:33 PM
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#3
09-10-2007, 11:37 PM
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If all your tie-rod ends and linkages are in good shape. there should be a free-play adjuster on your steering gear(it looks like a bolt with a screwdriver slot in it and a locknut holding it). To adjust it jack up your front end, loosen the locknut and tighten it a little at a time checking the freeplay as you go. Don't get it too tight or it will damage it. Then hold the screwdriver while you tighten the locknut. 
#4
09-11-2007, 12:27 AM
When I got my truck, it was scarey to take it above 50mph. Had the alignment checked and all the front end componets. Mechanic said everything is worn some, but nothing is worn out. Over a period of time, I did 3 things that solved the problem.
First, I carefully adjusted the preload on the steering box. Get it too tight and you will have a big problem. This helped a lot, but still not good.
Took off the BFG tires with the AT tread, and put on new set of Michelins with a M&S tread. This also made a really big difference.
Finaly installed a steering stabilizer. This also made a significant difference.
Now the truck is a little loose to drive, but I'm real comfortable with it. Wife likes to drive it and before she was scared to drive it at any speed.
Good luck Frank
First, I carefully adjusted the preload on the steering box. Get it too tight and you will have a big problem. This helped a lot, but still not good.
Took off the BFG tires with the AT tread, and put on new set of Michelins with a M&S tread. This also made a really big difference.
Finaly installed a steering stabilizer. This also made a significant difference.
Now the truck is a little loose to drive, but I'm real comfortable with it. Wife likes to drive it and before she was scared to drive it at any speed.
Good luck Frank