2001, F250, 7.3, 4x4, 122,000 miles. I replaced the steering box with a Red Head steering box - which is suppose to be a top of the line upgraded steering box. Two shops tell me all is tight in the front end. There still seems to be about 1" to 1"1/4" dead space between correcting right to left when going down the highway. I've been told that it's possible that the steering shaft is worn. I understand the 2001 F250's have the rubber rag joint and perhaps it is worn. They say I can get a third part steering shaft with a unjoing instead of the rubber rag joint. Is this correct? And, can a worn rag joing cause dead space in the steering shaft? Is there a way to check for wear in the steering shaft?

 

Hello-
I have a 2001 F250 7.3 with similar steering issues. Did you end up replacing the steering shaft on your truck?

I have had mine in to three different shops, and after replacing the upper and lower ball joints on both sides, tie-rods, steering stabilizer, steering gear box and all four tires - it still has sloppy steering.

The last shop we brought it into - their tech commented that our truck sucks to drive - but he can't figure out what is wrong.

Thanks!