Steering Gearbox Adjustment
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Senior User
Joined: Mar 2020
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From: Lodi, Ca
Steering Gearbox Adjustment
Hi All! Just an update on my new to me 95 F150 4x4 extended cab short bed, 5.8l, E4OD. I picked it up dirt cheap and have been pleasantly surprised at all the issues needing to be fixed, and how they've all seemed to work out really well and really easy.
One of the last items needing to be addressed is the bad steering play. I just changed the shocks and it looks like there's been at least some suspension bushing replacements, and things looked tight. So I figured adjusting the steering box is worth a shot. The threads here are great, and I followed the directions I found here to adjust the steering box. 1st about 1/4 turn, which helped, then another 1/4 turn, and it really tightened things up. I can't say it's like new, and I don't wanna take it too far, but it definitely made a nice improvement.
if you're struggling with steering play, try it. It might just make a new(er) truck for you😃!
Dan
95 F150 XLT EC SB 4x4, 5.8l.
One of the last items needing to be addressed is the bad steering play. I just changed the shocks and it looks like there's been at least some suspension bushing replacements, and things looked tight. So I figured adjusting the steering box is worth a shot. The threads here are great, and I followed the directions I found here to adjust the steering box. 1st about 1/4 turn, which helped, then another 1/4 turn, and it really tightened things up. I can't say it's like new, and I don't wanna take it too far, but it definitely made a nice improvement.
if you're struggling with steering play, try it. It might just make a new(er) truck for you😃!
Dan
95 F150 XLT EC SB 4x4, 5.8l.
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Joined: Jul 2017
Posts: 9,580
Likes: 1,162
From: San Jose, CA
What threads did you follow? Usually information here is pretty accurate, or if not there are plenty of members that know more and can call out any mistakes.
Reason I ask is that just turning the preload screw tighter is not always a workable solution and can actually create more wear and tear on the box for being too tight in it's on-center position.
Just wanted to check. Plenty of buggered boxes over the years (all brands and types) from just a little bit too much preload.
Good luck. Hope it works out.
And while you're checking steering stuff and trying to narrow down loose stuff, doing the steering test is quick, easy (with a helper at least) and will show you EVERYTHING that is either loose, getting loose, or wants to be loose.
You may have read it elsewhere already, or even done it. But if not, it's totally worth five minutes of your time.
Paul
Reason I ask is that just turning the preload screw tighter is not always a workable solution and can actually create more wear and tear on the box for being too tight in it's on-center position.
Just wanted to check. Plenty of buggered boxes over the years (all brands and types) from just a little bit too much preload.
Good luck. Hope it works out.
And while you're checking steering stuff and trying to narrow down loose stuff, doing the steering test is quick, easy (with a helper at least) and will show you EVERYTHING that is either loose, getting loose, or wants to be loose.
You may have read it elsewhere already, or even done it. But if not, it's totally worth five minutes of your time.
Paul
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Senior User
Joined: Mar 2020
Posts: 159
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From: Lodi, Ca
There are several threads on adjusting the steering gear box, and most warn against over tightening and not to expect miracles. I didn't get miracles but like I said, a nice improvement with no effects of over tightening. I never rely on one thread or even one sight. I'm aware of the pitfalls as anyone who does any kind of research would be.
so like I mentioned, I got a nice improvement...not like new, but nice...it was worth a shot, and for my truck it worked out nicely.
so like I mentioned, I got a nice improvement...not like new, but nice...it was worth a shot, and for my truck it worked out nicely.
Lead Driver
Joined: Jul 2017
Posts: 9,580
Likes: 1,162
From: San Jose, CA
I thought it was great news that you were able to report that improvement. As small as it might have been, it's kind of a huge thing any time you can tighten your steering!
Glad you had that info and found it was not over-tightened. Could have been adjusted loose originally, or just as likely has enough wear and tear on things inside that the little bit of twist gave it a new lease on life.
Be even better if it stays that way for a few more years!
Paul
Glad you had that info and found it was not over-tightened. Could have been adjusted loose originally, or just as likely has enough wear and tear on things inside that the little bit of twist gave it a new lease on life.
Be even better if it stays that way for a few more years!
Paul
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Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 12,792
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The last time I had to replace one, I got it from Napa and it was worse than the old leaking steering gear.
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