96 E150 Steering adjustment

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Nov 16, 2000 | 09:17 PM

gpierce123

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96 E150 Steering adjustment

I have a 96 E150 w/351 E40D w/ps. It has alot of slop on the input side of the steering box. I know the adjustment screw is there, just unsure of the exact procedure. Which way do you turn to tighten? Wheels off the ground or not? Can it be to tight?

Thanks in advance for any help!

Nov 16, 2000 | 11:43 PM

PAUL_2

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96 E150 Steering adjustment

The sector shaft can be adjusted but it needs to be done carefully . Best way to adjust it is one or two turns to tighten & drive the truck . The Sector Shaft has a locknut & adjusting screw , simply loosen the locknut & while holding it steady with a wrench turn the adjusting screw with a flat tip screwdriver . Tighten the locknut while holding the adjusting screw so it doesnt turn . Drive the vehicle & see how it feels . Just be careful because over tightening can have some diasterous results .

Nov 17, 2000 | 11:00 PM

gpierce123

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96 E150 Steering adjustment

Thanks for the reply. Mine actually uses a Torx bit instead of straight tip, but I have only turned it about a half a turn so far. Someone at work (a construction mechanic)told me not to go more than about a quarter turn at a time or I could damage it. I am turning it clockwise, I guess I need to go just a little farther. He also told me to do it with the wheels off the ground and to test the steering before driving off because it can bind when you turn to tight if you get it tight.

Gerry

Nov 17, 2000 | 11:31 PM

PAUL_2

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96 E150 Steering adjustment

I agree adjustments should be made in small increments , but usually one or two turns is sufficient to acheieve a more solid feel . Adjusting with the wheels on or off the ground makes no difference , they only true test comes from driving the truck after the adjustments are made .