Wheels dont return to center

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Feb 13, 2006 | 01:29 PM

TMoore532

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Wheels dont return to center

I have a 1988 f150 and the steering doesn't return to center. It's not low on fluid and doesn't leave puddle on the drive way. Its not difficult to turn the wheel either way, It does wine but not anymore than it ever did. I have got no idea where to even start. Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Travis

Feb 13, 2006 | 03:33 PM

IB Tim

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Feb 13, 2006 | 06:46 PM

quehele

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From: Visalia, California

Quote:

Originally Posted by TMoore532

2wd. - 4wd? Can I assume that this is at all speeds?

Have your front end shop check your caster setting. It's usually non-adjustable but the bushings can where out, causing your wheels to want to stay in the same position and not return to center.

Just a thought.

Feb 13, 2006 | 07:07 PM

wickymustang

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Caster is adjustable, you have to knock the ring out that the upper ball joint goes into. The hole is offcenter, and you can either rotate this or replace with a different offset to adjust caster. Not something you can just do in the driveway though.

Feb 13, 2006 | 07:19 PM

quehele

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From: Visalia, California

Quote:

Originally Posted by wickymustang

Caster is adjustable, you have to knock the ring out that the upper ball joint goes into. The hole is offcenter, and you can either rotate this or replace with a different offset to adjust caster. Not something you can just do in the driveway though.

I agree. This is something for the pros.

Feb 13, 2006 | 07:20 PM

TMoore532

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It does happen at all speeds...the truck is jsut down right scary to drive at anything over in town speeds...I can completly let go of the wheel when im turning and it will stay in the same position and do circle all day. Is the ring that you talk about pressed into the nuckel??? how big is the offset...When I replaced the ball joints I can't rember seeing any offset in the hole. My local shop tried to fix it before but they could't figure out so I don't think they are a capable of fixing it...I live in a town of 4000 people. If it is these offset rings where can I buy some and can I just bring the nuckel the mill where My dad works and get them to press the old one out and a new one in?

Feb 13, 2006 | 07:21 PM

TMoore532

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oh and it is a 4x4...sorry

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Feb 13, 2006 | 07:38 PM

quehele

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From: Visalia, California

Quote:

Originally Posted by TMoore532

oh and it is a 4x4...sorry

Please take my advice: Find a reputable front end shop...like a Ford dealer. The money you spend there is money that won't have to be spent on your funeral. Trust my experience...when I was a younger man I "adjusted" my own steering...and it completely gave out making a turn. Luckily I was doing less than 5 mph at the time. If I'd been on the highway...I wouldn't be typing this to you now.

Engine - transmission - electrical, etc...if IT gives out what's the worst case scenerio? You get towed home. What happens if you lose your steering at 60 or 70 mph?

Spend the money.