Notices

Steering issue

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old Apr 1, 2011 | 11:10 AM
  #1  
msister3's Avatar
msister3
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Steering issue

Hi All,

Just joined the forum. Background information...just purchased a 1989 Econoline 250 camper van with approximately 16,500 miles on it. Preparing to begin a cross country trip in it (very soon). Runs like a champ. My only concern is that it steers very loosely, I would describe it as floating side to side. I am getting the impression that this is not uncommon in this van. Am I correct in this assumption? I guess I am seeking input as to whether or not this is a major concern, symptom of a bigger issue as opposed to just being something I will have to be aware of and deal with, etc. I should add that I am not in the least mechanically savvy so will not be able to carry on any technical "conversation" regarding it. I, however, thank you in advance for any thoughts or suggestions you may have regarding this.
 
Reply
Old Apr 2, 2011 | 04:23 PM
  #2  
BullDad's Avatar
BullDad
Freshman User
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 28
Likes: 0
From: Mid-Ga
Got lotsa ideas why u r havin this prob...
But if you aint mech savvy....
You shud take this rascal to a front end guy.
Even if you replace the tie rods, ball joints, and/or center link you will need it to get a GOOD line up before you go cross-country.
You may save some $ if you buy some of the afore mentioned parts b4 tasking her in....
(They always charge more if they get 'em 4 ya)
 
Reply
Old Apr 2, 2011 | 11:11 PM
  #3  
EmilBarnabas's Avatar
EmilBarnabas
More Turbo
15 Year Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 546
Likes: 41
From: Fayetteville, NC
It could be your toe is not set correctly, which is not expensive to adjust. Have you hit any curbs, or pot holes lately?

As BullDad said, take it to a front end shop and have the alignment checked.
 
Reply
Old Apr 4, 2011 | 06:12 AM
  #4  
tjc transport's Avatar
tjc transport
i ain't rite
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 65,607
Likes: 5,629
From: Marlboro Mental Hospital.
Club FTE Gold Member
welcome to FTE. you will probably get better response to your questions in the full size econoline forums, one down in the list from this one.
 
Reply
Old Apr 5, 2011 | 10:41 AM
  #5  
msister3's Avatar
msister3
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Thank you all for your responses. No pothole or curb encounters and she runs straights as an arrow around town. It is just the issue of floating or drifting once on the highway. Heading in for a tune-up and oil change this morning. They are aware of my concern and are intending to take a look at it. In any event we will be heading out for our cross country tour this week. Again, thanks for the responses and my welcome to the forum.
 
Reply
Related Topics
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
yechave
1997 - 2003 F150
2
Jun 13, 2013 09:07 AM
clemensfield
1968-Present E-Series Van/Cutaway/Chassis
6
Dec 15, 2012 04:05 PM
clemensfield
Pre-Power Stroke Diesel (7.3L IDI & 6.9L)
10
Nov 25, 2012 02:43 PM
nossliw
1994.5 - 1997 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel
11
Jul 25, 2012 11:43 AM
polarspeed
1948 - 1956 F1, F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
2
Feb 5, 2010 12:02 PM




All times are GMT -5. The time now is 05:06 AM.

story-0
10 Ways Ford is LOSING to the Competition

Slideshow: 10 ways Ford is losing to the competition

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-06-15 09:52:01


VIEW MORE
story-1
Top 6 Best Deals Available on New Fords & Lincolns Right Now

Some great targets in today's expensive world.

By Brett Foote | 2026-06-15 09:35:19


VIEW MORE
story-2
This Hennessey Takes the Expedition Tremor's Off-Roading Capability to the Next Level

Slideshow: The VelociRaptor Expedition gains a lift, upgraded suspension, Brembo brakes, and trail-ready equipment while retaining the stock 440-horsepower EcoBoost V6.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-06-12 11:01:55


VIEW MORE
story-3
Top 10 Fords at 2026 Carlisle Ford Nationals

Slideshow: Top 10 Fords at 2026 Ford Nationals

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-06-09 11:10:08


VIEW MORE
story-4
3 Best / 3 Worst Parts of Modern Ford Ownership

Based on years of owning multiple modern Ford products.

By Brett Foote | 2026-06-09 10:53:36


VIEW MORE
story-5
10 Amazing Upgrades That Solve Common Ford Truck Owner Headaches

SPONSORED: From muddy boots to rain-soaked cargo, these upgrades address some of the most common frustrations Ford truck owners face every day.

By Pouria Savadkouei | 2026-06-08 18:50:34


VIEW MORE
story-6
Every 2026 Ford Engine Explained

Here's everything you need to know about every Ford engine available for the 2026 model year.

By Brett Foote | 2026-06-05 12:58:01


VIEW MORE
story-7
10 Ugly Ford Trucks That We Still Kinda Love

Slideshow: 10 ugly Ford trucks that we still kinda love.

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-06-03 09:51:16


VIEW MORE
story-8
10 Things Every Truck Owner NEEDS (2026 Edition)

Slideshow: the best gifts for dads & grads

By Michael S. Palmer | 2026-06-03 15:43:58


VIEW MORE
story-9
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalyptic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath

Slideshow: Called the Fortress, the 850-horsepower pickup combines Raptor underpinnings with military-inspired features, survival equipment, and a starting price of $285,000.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-06-03 11:38:36


VIEW MORE