Gentlemen,
I searched this forum but didnt find the answer to the following question:
Is the steering box on the 91 Explorer adjustable? I did see that the 92-94 are adjustable but nothing specific to the 91. Is the 91 the same adjustment set-up as 92-94?
Thanks to all that respond.

F16driver
91 ford Explorer
2nd engine
275,000 miles total

 

Same gear box, same adjustability. Be careful not to try to get the slop too tight, or you will have it changing lanes when you sneeze. I never was able to make my 91 steer like I thought it should.

 

thanks Dailtone,
I've adjusted the screw twice now and it has taken some of the slop out of the steering. I plan on tweeking the screw a little more but I will be careful not to go too far. I've read about the wheel not returning to center if the screw is adjusted too tight.
If not for this forum I would not have known about the steering box adjustment. I've had several mechanics look at my front end suspension for play in the steering and not one knew of or suggested an adjustment on the steering box. I was all set to go out and start buying tie rods and ball joints.

F16Driver
91 Ford Explorer
275,000 (2nd engine)

 

Last time I had front end aligned on my 91, the mechanic suggested altering the alignment specs slightly after I explained what was happening with being blown around in a side wind, and having the vehicle steering very touchy at high speed, especially on a rough road. I think he added more caster than specs. And it did help.

Here is an excerpt from a web article that helps explain.

"With too little positive caster, steering may be touchy at high speed and wheel returnability may be diminished when coming out of a turn."

Another site:
"Caster angle settings allow the vehicle manufacturer to balance steering effort, high speed stability and front end cornering effectiveness.

Increasing the amount of positive caster will increase steering effort and straight line tracking, as well as improve high speed stability and cornering effectiveness. Positive caster also increases tire lean when cornering (almost like having more negative camber) as the steering angle is increased.

What's the downside to positive caster? If thevehicle doesn't have power steering, a noticeable increase in steering effort will be felt as positive caster is increased. Other than that, the effects of positive caster are pretty much "positive," especially increasing the lean of the tire when the vehicle is cornering while returning it to a more upright position when driving straight ahead."



Find a GOOD front end man and ask him about this.