Play in steering
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Senior User
Joined: Sep 2006
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Play in steering
Just started all at once, but my 94 STX supercab 4x4 4.0 M5OD will have about 90 deg. of play at the steering wheel to the right then after making a left turn in will have the same play to the left, and will not straighten after a turn. I'm about 90% positive it's the steering box. Is there an upgrade like say using an F series box? I do use it for offroading every chance I get and I want it to last.
Thanks ,
Roy
Thanks ,
Roy
Postmaster
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 2,595
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From: IL
Reads like you have something that has failed for it to all of the sudden happen. I just tightened my steering, but not all years/models have this adjuster. I too have a 94 and if you look closely below the power steering pump there's an adjustment screw on top of the steering box with a lock nut on it. Tighten down until "starting to get snug" then back off a 1/4 turn and walla.
Elder User
Joined: Jul 2005
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Yeah.. but 90 degrees play! That's a whole quarter turn! Something seriously not right here. Even a gearbox with THAT much play has some MAJOR issues.
Just to be 100% sure, check the basics.. tie rod ends, pitman arm, ball joints... also check the steering column linkage (between the steering wheel and the gearbox) make sure no splines are slipping or anything of the sort. Also have someone move the steering wheel though the amount of play, and observe the linkage going into the gearbox vs. coming out as they rock the wheel back and forth. If you see smooth movement of the linkage going in, and no movement of the pitman arm.. then yes you've got a bad gear box.
Good luck.
Just to be 100% sure, check the basics.. tie rod ends, pitman arm, ball joints... also check the steering column linkage (between the steering wheel and the gearbox) make sure no splines are slipping or anything of the sort. Also have someone move the steering wheel though the amount of play, and observe the linkage going into the gearbox vs. coming out as they rock the wheel back and forth. If you see smooth movement of the linkage going in, and no movement of the pitman arm.. then yes you've got a bad gear box.
Good luck.
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Senior User
Joined: Sep 2006
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Well I need a box, Further inspection shows some damage to the teeth inside, yes I took it apart. 2 teeth brock off. I've never seen this before, but it is what is is. Now for the next question will an F serise truck box fit a ranger? Bigger truck to me means bigger, stronger parts.
Post Fiend
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 5,242
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From: Kiev, Ukraine
Is there box like in F-series ore Rack'n'pinion? 90dgr play is very dangerous. How can it happen - may be a big bump ore hole in road at hight speed.... 2 teeth ore more were cracked and broko off later.
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