Yet again another thread on a wandering van. You would think by this time someone would have ALL the answers on this, but searching the forum I see more questions than answers.

The patient, 1990 e350 cargo, engine 460, 170k miles. front and rear swaybars

Symtoms: At freeway speeds, at least 2" of free play in the steering. Only really noticable at freeway speeds, grooved or rutted road surface make it wander all over.

The following have been checked or replaced:
-tires are 1 year old, load range e truck tires, stock size
-alignment is in spec, camber as well
- kingpins are good
-all front suspension bushings replaced with urethane
-front wheel bearings are good and adjusted correctly
-innner tie rods replaced, outer ends are good
-steering box replaced 6 months ago
-steering column and shaft repaired, the metal shim inside was missing, checked the column to gearbox coupling.


I have spent alot of time on this and fixed several problems, it has improved but is still not acceptable. Right kniow I suspect the steering box, even though its a rebuilt unit. It came from napa, cost was $200. I suspect they don't rebuild the gear, only reseal the box. I can adjust the play out of the box with the lash adjustment but anyhting but straight ahead is way too stiff, i think the center part of the gear is worn. Ford offers a new box for $1k+, the van is worth about that. I also see ford offers a replacement gear selector shaft and the worm. Anyone know what these rebuilders are accually replacing? The napa guys are clueless on this. Where should I be getting a rebiult box from. Any ideas on the box or any other areas I have overlooked?

Thanks for your help
Stacy

 

Stacy,

Was this work done by a shop? If not, I would take it to an older well established shop that has been around for a while and has the experience and knowledge of an older vehicle. Maybe there is a known problem with the steering gearbox......How about a steering stabilizer? Although you wouldn't want to cover up some other worn/defective part.......

John

 

Stacy,

There is good info on this problem here. Its just there are a number of causes. You just have to pin yours down.

Looks like you have covered the bases but I would ask a couple of questions. You said the bushings were eurathane. Were they replaced recently? Did that include the swaybar and radius arm bushings? The radius arm bushings are famous for causing this.

It sounds to me like it may be a steering box issue. I know you said you installed a "rebuilt" box but I am like you, its very likely it was just cleaned and sealed. The box does have an adjustment on it. I would start with that. Loosen the jamb nut and turn the screw clockwise an easily noted amount. Like a half turn and then test drive it. If that helped, do it again. If that's too much, back it off by half.

I found when adjusting these boxes, you can feel the adjuster tightening up as you turn it. Often, turn it until you feel it tighten up and then back it off slightly. That usually gets you pretty close.

 

ok i have a 1978 ford e 250 and i have the exact same problem but i have herd that the frame cracks behind the steering box but mine is fine my king pins r new and i havent done my steering box yet but mines all over the road and i have 2 inchs of play also there is a place were im getting a rebuilt steering box off of a shop that only does steering boxes he rebuilds them himself and i think mine for 1978 is 250 bucks.he only does steering boxes and its called sterring solutions in port kels surrey b.c. canada but i am sure he will ship it to u no probs hes a very nice guy and i am going to buy mine there for sure oh and i would be very suprised if it has any play in it at all considering he does nothing else but steering boxes and if he has one on his shelf for my 1978 im sure he will have yours

 

i had the same problem with mine its was the steering box i had a new one put in and nows shes tight a new not rebuilt one try it i know its alot of work but well worth it......