Wandering 4x4
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Wandering 4x4
I've been searching for the cause of this for a while, did the ball joints, tires, shocks, alignment, etc. So I tried to adjust the steering box with that setscrew and lock nut, seemed to do the trick, turned it almost one turn clockwise. My question, is a good thing to do and how tight is to tight?
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2004
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From: Parker, CO
You must be VERY careful adjusting that nut on the top of the steering box. Tighten it too much, and you'll burn it up quickly. One full turn is quite a bit of adjustment. Most people start in 1/8 or 1/4 turn adjustments then take for a test drive.
Just remember that in almost every case, this is only a temporary fix. Once the gearbox starts to get loose, it's just a matter of time before it needs to be replaced.
Just remember that in almost every case, this is only a temporary fix. Once the gearbox starts to get loose, it's just a matter of time before it needs to be replaced.
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Well here's what I did, I noticed a litte clunking noise when rocking the steering wheel back and forth with the engine off. So my helper kept it rocking and I tighened the set screw slowly till the clunking stopped. Guess I should go back off a little just to be safe?
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2004
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From: Parker, CO
Better yet, turn the steering wheel full lock in both directions and check for the steering box "binding". If it feels tight or harder to turn as you approach full lock, then you've adjusted it too far.
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That sounds like a better idea, I've been wandering down the road for 35k miles since I bought this truck. I'll try anything once. Thanks
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Logistics Pro
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 3,788
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From: Georgia
The right way to adjust the steering box is to disconnect the pittman arm and take off the airbag and adjust using an inch pound torque wrench. If you search this forum there are a set of instructions on here somewhere. they are taken from the ford service manual. I have adjusted mine, I have had Ford adjust mine, I had mine replaced ($1300 south Florida dealer price)and I still have the problem. You can also look in the "wandering" thread on this forum. It's about 10 pages long and has a lot of info on the problem, but few solutions. I know this isn't much help but if you read all that stuff you'll have a better idea what you're dealing with.
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