Steering problem question
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Steering problem question
1978 F250. Over the last few days the steering has become difficult. It's OK from 11:00 to 1:00 on the wheel, which is good for straight roads, but anything further than that in either direction meets with resistance. It's kind of jerky when turned, in that there will be initial resistance, then further into the turn it's a little easier but still resistance, then further into the turn resistance again. And the wheel doesn't want to come right back to 12:00 as it usually does.
Anyway, there are probably a few different possible problems, but any ideas as to what is most likely, so I at least know where to start? Any simple tests I can do to narrow down the likely culprit? Power steering fluid is full. The tie rod and assembly was replaced a few years ago by a reputable off road shop, so I doubt anything there. Thanks for any input.
Anyway, there are probably a few different possible problems, but any ideas as to what is most likely, so I at least know where to start? Any simple tests I can do to narrow down the likely culprit? Power steering fluid is full. The tie rod and assembly was replaced a few years ago by a reputable off road shop, so I doubt anything there. Thanks for any input.
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You did not specify if it is 4x4 or 4x2. Since you mentioned off road shop I will guess 4x4. It sound like possible front axle u-joints and or frozen ball joints if it has a dana 44 front axle. That is where I would start first. If those are all ok then I would look at the steering gear. Hope this helps.
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Thanks, yes, it's 4x4. Question for anyone: If I'm just looking under there while someone else is turning the steering wheel, how might I tell if it's the u-joints or the ball joints? What exactly would I look for as the wheel is turning?
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Well this is what I would do to isolate the problem. Jack up the wheels off the ground and remove the tie rods from the knuckles, this takes the steering out of the equation. The grab the tire and cycle it back and forth. It should move with alittle resistance but it should move. If you can't hardly move it then the ball joints are seized and need to be replaced. If one side is bad the other is not far away. When you take everything apart you will have to remove the axle shaft's to get the knuckle off, the you can check the axle joints. The condition you describe above the wheel not centering and wandiring is called memory steer. If you have never done this before get a freind that has to help you or take it to a shop. It is alittle involved but not out of reach for the novice do it yourselfer. You will need tools. Hope this help's
Lead Driver
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To check the U joints turn the wheels all the way in either direction then reach in from the back side and try to turn the axles by reaching in through the knuckels and getting a hold of the U joint. If they don't turn free then they are bad.
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