I feel like there is too much play in the power steering gear box in my 88 pickup. Im not sure the proper name of the part, but the column drives right into it and turns which steers the truck.. My truck has always had a little play since I got it, so Im not sure how normal a 7-10 degrees lee-way is.. I just would rather have it super tight and have absolutely no play. Is there anything I can do or adjust to help this?
First thing to do is check for slop in all of the steering components, ball joints, wheel bearings, idler arm bushings. If all of the slop is located in the steering box, it can be tightened by adjusting the set screw in the top of the box. It'll have a jam nut...
Exactly what he said about the box itself. I don't know the spec, but it should be in the chiltons or factory repair guides. Also make sure you have everything else in spec and that the tires are inflated properly. Tire pressure alone can play with stuff alot.
have someone inside the truck turn the steering wheel 1/4 turn in both directions in a continuous motion and look at each individual component for slop/movement.
I have a strong feeling I have a bad wheel bearing on the left because I always get a weird vibration even at low-speed. I took it to this front-end performance shop, and he said all the ball joints look cool. But thank you! this was just the answer was looking for!!
