First I'd like to say thanks for all the help you guys give on this site. I have learned more faster about diesels than I thought possible. I bought my first, a 94F250 XLT diesel/auto 4x4 ext cab, 200k + miles. It was the right price and what I am looking for in a weekend hunting and laking truck. This brute is in good shape giving me 15 mpg around town this weekend. I have a couple questions. Steering is alittle loose, about an inch travel on the wheel so it wanders around if your not paying attention. Second the 4x4 lever/ transmission makes some noise when excellerating like a mount may be worn or faulty. It is not effecting the operation in any way its just noticable as not normal. I hope you may have some thoughts and I thank you.

 

94F250_weekender,
Welcome to FTE and the IDI diesel forum.

Check the tie rod ends and the ball joints in the front end for your play. Another place to look is under the hood, look at the steering shaft all the way down to the steering sector. A little play in that shaft seems like a lot while driving on the road.

Check the transfer case lever for play in both the linkage and the pivot point. You should be able to see all that from under the truck.

 

On the steering check the Rag joint/steering column coupler they will wear or the bolts can loosen. Check the fluid level in the TC, should be only ATF in there.

 

Welcome to FTE. Mine wanders a bit. I don't take it on the turnpike if I can help it. I replaced both tie rods and ends, but it didn't help much. I also adjusted the steering box some, but I think it is just worn and needs to be replaced. At 200k yours might be too. Mine has 182k.

 

I'm new around hear too, and I had the same problem with my 99'. Its got 160k on it and I had play too. Of course I had on a 6 inch suspention lift and 38" tires. My was vibrating and they the pitman arm snapped the input shaft off of the gear box. See how much play is in your pitman arm/ gearbox shaft. Its verrrrrrry scarrrrrry when you loose all stearing.