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truck has play in the steering and is all over the road. Every time i hit a bump it really throws you. Anyone have any idea what the problem is? Is this a problem in these years? thanks
The steering coupler is the gizmo that connects your steering column to the gearbox. Unfortunately in these years they sell you the whole lower shaft (pricey), unlike older Fords where it’s just a $12 rubber bushing.
Ball joints or steering coupler.
Could also be the bushings on the axle pivot points where it attaches to the frame.
My 86 has over 300,000 on the clock and drives like a new one.
To check what is causing the problem, jack up the front of the truck one wheel at a time. If there is significant play when you push and pull on the 9 and 3 o clock positions, steering linkage is the culprit. If there is excess movement when you push and pull at the 11 and 5 o clock positions (right side) or 1 and 7 o clock positions (left side), bad ball joints are the cause. Wheel bearings can be checked at the 12 and 6 o clock positions. I know that some of the older Ford pickups had a problem with the link arm between the left and right steering knuckles, if you grab the shaft and it is easy to flop it back and forth, the rod ends can be adjusted at opposing angles to lock themselves into place.