what is the best steering fix??

[Nuggethead 420]

91 eddie

what is the best cure for the famous steering play I would like to here a boat load of ideas and why they are best.

I have a very sloppy steering and makes it very hard to stay in my lane without 30 degrees of correction every 5 seconds.

Im have read several threads on the subject but what is best and works well.
I guess the best way to gain the least amount of play.

Everyone has an opinion on this that owns or fixed it on they're Explorer so sound off.....please.

 

[F14CRAZY]

I have done this on both of my trucks with success for over a year now...

On top of the steering box, there is a nut with a screw in the middle. Loosen the nut, and turn the screw. Turn it clockwise about a turn, tighten the nut back up, and go for a drive. Repeat if needed. Only tighten it enough to eliminate the slack in the box. There will still be some play in the bushings/tie rods, but it'll be better. It took me about 2 turns.

It has been debated whether doing this trick causes uneven wear in the box which may result in loss of steering control (bad). I would greatly suggest at least having new/clean fluid in the power steering system to avoid this if it's true. When I got my Explorers, the fluid was black/gray :thumbdwn:

 

[Jefe]

You need to figure out where the play is coming from. . . and then fix the problem(s).
Could be steering shaft, box (as mentioned above), or tie rod ends.
Let someone steer back and forth in the area of play, and you follow the steering shaft to the box, and out to the steering knuckles to see exactly where the play is coming in.

 

[Scott B.]

Your steering box could just be worn out - mine is. Tightening the adjusting screw can take out play, but then the wheel will not return freely to straight after a turn.

I tightened mine (a little) several years ago, now I have play again. I have a new steering box and pump waiting to go in. It might be time to change yours.