Sloppy Steering
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Elder User
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 871
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From: Coleman, Wisconsin
Sloppy Steering
Is there anyway I can get tighter steering out of my '81 F100? I know thats just how they are, but I really don't like the 38 turns of the wheel just to turn a corner.... Thanks
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 5,643
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From: NE Texas
Sloppy Steering
You can tighten up the gears in gearbox with a 5/8" wrench (i think) and a screwdriver. The adjustment screw is on top of the box (the one with a slotted screw in the center of a nut). But it's tricky. By that I mean it might just make it worse. Sometimes this can help when the gears have a little slack, but can be dangerous if there is a lot of slack. Dangerous because the gears can be so worn that after you tighten they become damaged and can fail. If there is alot of slack, just go get another gearbox at the junkyard - one that's good and tight.
Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 9,987
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From: Memphis, TN
Sloppy Steering
First, you need to identify where the slop is. If it's in the intermediate shaft (between the firewall & the box), you can trade it out for an '87-91 shaft, which is much better. If it's in the tie rods or ball joints, you're wasting time, money, & tires until you replace them. Considering where the truck came from, I'd bet you have BOTH those problems, and maybe a worn-out steering box, too. 
Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 5,871
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From: Coutts Canada
Sloppy Steering
I would say you need new tie rods. You should check everything from the steering rod down to the wheels and make sure everything is tip top shape.(Piyman arm might be the problem) Also is it aligned properly?
Thread Starter
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Elder User
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 871
Likes: 0
From: Coleman, Wisconsin
Sloppy Steering
I took a look at it today and the tie rods have a LITTLE slop on them.....now that I think about it though, I just think I need new shocks. She goes down the road pretty darn good if they're no bumps. 
