My 1976 f150 has loose steering any good fixes?

 

1. Figure out where its loose, then tighten what is loose or replace what is worn out. I would not suggest you try to adjust the "slack adjuster" on the steering box. Ck loose nut behind steering wheel.lol
2. Lets start with the obvious. Same size rims and tires on the front end? Correct lug nuts being used? Lug nuts tight?

I would then jack up front end up with the tires a few inches off the ground. Install jack stands, chalk rear tires /e-brake ect... and have a helper (with the truck NOT running) turn the steering wheel back and forth a bit (enough to reach a tightening up point then reverse direction) and you insp everything under the hood and under the truck steering and suspension related.

https://shop.broncograveyard.com/Ste...d/products/180

2wd truck I bet a cold one its the flex coupling AKA rag joint where the steering shaft coming out the fire wall connects to the steering box. P/S fluid soaked and it falls apart.
4wd could be same deal on the rag joint.
Insp pitman arm, steering box to frame connections (bolts tight)? Frame cracked?
Insp tire/wheel for 12-6 o'clock play, loose wheel bearings, (pry bar trick ck) for loose ball joints.
Insp tire/wheel 3-9 o'clock play tie rod ends.
Insp all drag link ball joints connection points excessive play.
Insp the fitting where the steering shaft comes out the firewall, and the radius arm rubber bushings.
4wd trac bar bushings and mounts and hdwr.

Is there any radial or axial play in the steering wheel/column itself? Steering wheel is splined to the steering shaft, is it tight? Or does it just go down and road and wonder and you have to chase the steering?

Bet 2 cold ones the steering box is shot. Either get a fresh painted junk reman, or get a Red Head or Blue Top.

 

I’ll bet a full 6 pack... Its always wise to check pitman arm connection and the rag joint. But with the truck off and sitting stationary. If you can twist the steering shaft at the rag joint a half a turn in both directions. Thats where the majority of the wheel play is coming from. The steering gears that came with these trucks where down right awful. Bluetop or redhead steering gear for the best fix up. Best to replace the rag joint while your there.