Tight spot in steering

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Jan 6, 2012 | 04:33 PM

Dr. Johnson

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More Turbo

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From: PNW

Tight spot in steering

I have a 1978 F250 4x4 supercab and it is in excellent mechanical condition aside from a strange tight spot in the steering. about every 1/2 turn of the wheel It gets tight for a split second and then smooth again. it does it both ways and probably twice to a full revolution... other than that it steers well, any pointers where I should check for the solution. the front end istight and lubed. I am REALLY hoping that its not the gear box and if so I hope I can cure the problem without a new box.

Jan 6, 2012 | 04:41 PM

OldStyle

Rusty Roller

Joined: Oct 2011

Posts: 1,423

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From: Santa Cruz Mountains

Check the universal in the steering coupler. Mine did that and I found the universal was rusted and binding. A little penetrating oil freed it up then grease and haven't had a problem since.

Jan 6, 2012 | 05:04 PM

earthquake68

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Joined: Jan 2011

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From: THIS IS SPARTA!, ...Mo.

Yup, what he said. ^^^

I'd bet money it's in the column.

Jan 6, 2012 | 06:57 PM

Dr. Johnson

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From: PNW

Damn, that seems obvious... I will check it out and report. Thanks

Jan 6, 2012 | 09:43 PM

mark a.

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It could also be a froze up front axle U joint. Turn the wheels all the way in either direction then reach in and turn each axle by hand at the U joint.