Looking in parts books they list a adjusting screw . So being that my steering was on the loose side I found that I could make an adjustment. I was wondering thoe what is the recommened amount of adjustment / tightening one should do on the gear box. Should it be tightened then backed off a turn or what?
I also found that the bolt on the pittman arm was loose. Now that both have been tightened my steering is 100% better.
Perhaps some day I'll attempt power steering. Thanks for help anybody can provide. Bob

 

Hi Bob. The procedure for adjusting your steering is in the shop manual. If you don't have one, it's the best money you'll spend on your truck. They are available right here in the on-line store, MotorHaven. Glad your steering is improved!

 

George is right on the money about the shop manual, but you might need to make an adjustment before you get one shipped to you. Don't destroy the gear if you don't have to.

Put a jack or jackstands under the axle so both wheels are off the ground. Turn the steering wheel so the wheels are pointed straight ahead. Turn the adjusting screw in until it just makes contact with the worm gear. You don't want much pressure at all, snug is all it takes. Lock it down and turn the wheel back and forth from full right to full left. If you feel any tight spots return the wheels to straight ahead and back off the adjuster a bit. Repeat as necessary.

Take it off the jackstands and road test. You'll always have a little play in the steering wheel. Too many joints and connections to get rid of everything.

Turning the adjusting screw in (clockwise) pulls the sector roller into the worm gear. Too much and they will destroy each other.

 

Thanks for the help, I do plan on ordering the book for my truck. Bob