Steering Question
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Joined: Sep 2005
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Steering Question
I truly apologize if this question has been answered in a previous post. I've done quite a bit of searching and at least have realized that the u-joint near the firewall definately needs replaced, but there's one thing that I just can't seem to figure out.
I have a '79 supercab auto w/ tilt. (if that matters) With the truck parked and just sitting on the ground (not jacked up) I can reach into the engine side and somewhat turn the steering rod about 1/2 inch to a full inch either way. This is where I can feel that the u-joint needs replaced. The only issue is that it seems like way too much play. I can see the steering wheel turning and where it goes into the steering box. Maybe this is okay but it sure seems like something is loose.
I've had quite a bit of play in the steering wheel since I bought this truck in september, but figured I'd start looking into fixing it once hunting season was over.
Any assistance would be greatly appreciated!
-Jeff
I have a '79 supercab auto w/ tilt. (if that matters) With the truck parked and just sitting on the ground (not jacked up) I can reach into the engine side and somewhat turn the steering rod about 1/2 inch to a full inch either way. This is where I can feel that the u-joint needs replaced. The only issue is that it seems like way too much play. I can see the steering wheel turning and where it goes into the steering box. Maybe this is okay but it sure seems like something is loose.
I've had quite a bit of play in the steering wheel since I bought this truck in september, but figured I'd start looking into fixing it once hunting season was over.
Any assistance would be greatly appreciated!
-Jeff
Postmaster
Joined: Apr 2000
Posts: 2,838
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From: SD
Most often the play is wear in the steering box and it needs to be replaced. But rule out other things first. Have someone turn the wheel back and forth (like you were) as you look over the tie rods and other joints looking for any sign of play. If there are no other loose joints, look into replacing the box.
Marty
Marty
Senior User
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 284
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From: Alamogordo, New Mexico
Hey Jeff,
I had the same thing on my '77. I bet I had more play in mine than yours! Scary. Dang truck would cross ever which way across the road. Real scary coming down out of the mountains. Anywho, my whole front end is almost new now. But I think the big thing was the steerin box. I am going to eventually replace the steering rod when the money gods shine back on me, because it is loose, but replacing the steering gear box made a world of difference. Now if I can keep it from eating those track bar bushings up...
Rich
I had the same thing on my '77. I bet I had more play in mine than yours! Scary. Dang truck would cross ever which way across the road. Real scary coming down out of the mountains. Anywho, my whole front end is almost new now. But I think the big thing was the steerin box. I am going to eventually replace the steering rod when the money gods shine back on me, because it is loose, but replacing the steering gear box made a world of difference. Now if I can keep it from eating those track bar bushings up...
Rich
