wandering steering

[Ian]

I have a very loose front end. There is approximately 3-4 inches of play in the steering. This play makes makes driving on the freeway an adventure. I am suspecting the tierods, tierod ends, centerdrag link and possibly the pitman arm. Is this the most common sources of play? Any recommendations are appreciated.

'93 xlt 4x4 4.0

 

[indianajohn]

Ian-
A couple other things to check: the front wheel bearings (which should be pretty easy with the front end off the ground), and the steering gearbox. If you can't find anything loose with an inspection of tierods, bearings, etc., it's probably your gearbox. I know there is an adjustment of some sort for the gearbox, but I'm not sure exactly how that works. It may be worth your while to check the steering column mounting bolts where it attaches to the firewall. This probably isn't the cause, but it's easy enough to check (they're on the interior). I know what a pain steering freeplay can be. Good luck.
-John

 

[roadkill]

First, crawl under the truck with the wheels on the ground,(when it's off and in park!) while someone is in the driver's seat, and have them wiggle the steering wheel back and forth. If there's any play in the steering system, it should becomes apparent. The wheels should wiggle at the same time as the pitman arm of the steering box.
Look at the :
pitman arm bushing
all the steering bushings

If any of the joints aren't moving as a unit, it needs replacing!

While the truck is on jack stands, and the wheels lifted, grab the tire and try to wiggle the wheel, left and right and up and down. If there's any play, adjust the bearings.
Good luck! Dead Link Removed

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"Don't go where the road don't go." -Ringo Starr

Wil - '92 EB

 

[Barnstormer]

You can also adjust the worm gear. The adjustment screw is on top of the gear box. Loosen the lock nut and gently turn the set screw in. Check for play.

I had to adjust mine at 75K. The gearbox sprung a big leak at 130K. There are springs inside. -- I HATE springs!

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Barnstormer
'91 stock 4X4