Steering is loose
Postmaster
Joined: Apr 2000
Posts: 2,838
Likes: 6
From: SD
Have someone turn the wheel while you look over every joint from the column to the wheels. Pay special attention to each of the tie rod ends. Or take it to a shop for an estimate - they will look it over and tell you what it needs...
Marty
Marty
Posting Guru
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 1,113
Likes: 0
From: Remsen, NY
You have to be very careful adjusting that, if you get it too tight you will blow it very quickly. Check everything else first and make sure it's tight, the steering box adjustment is a last resort. The haynes has a procedure, it involves pulling the pitman arm and using an inch-pound torque wrench to figure out how much resistance there is at the top of the steering column. Don't mess with that adjustment without knowing exactly what you're doing, you'll screw up the box.
Senior User
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 116
Likes: 0
From: Northwest
Adjusting you steering box isn't rocket science. Just loosen the locknut and turn the screw in with a screwdriver.....and as your GENTLY turning the screw....... have someone wiggle the steering wheel back and forth. When it gets to the point you can no longer GENTLY turn the screw- STOP, and back it up a full turn and tighten the lock nut.
If you overtighten it......... the steering wheel will "not return to center" after making a turn while driving. So DO be carefull when test driving after you make the adjustment.
If you overtighten it......... the steering wheel will "not return to center" after making a turn while driving. So DO be carefull when test driving after you make the adjustment.
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Tuned
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 495
Likes: 0
From: Cincinnati, Ohio
Follow gatesj's advice and only do this with a inch pound torque wrench and to spec for your truck. On my 99 it is 13 inch pounds over center. Adjusting any other way may work OK but you may be overloading the gearbox bearings and not even know you are doing it. Ask me how I know this?
John
John
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