Steering is more loose than before

[Rus-T65]

I use to have about 1/4 wheel of play in the steering. Most of that was in the pitman arm. When I was out last weekend, I noticed the steering now has about 1/2 wheel of play. This occured when I was on my way home. When I left, it was still a 1/4 wheel of play.

When I turn the steering column shaft from in the wheel well, I can see that most of this play is in the steering box. I know there is an adjustment at the top of the box, but is there something more wrong here, or does it need adjusting?

Thanks for your help.

 

[dvalentine]

I use to have about 1/4 wheel of play in the steering. Most of that was in the pitman arm. When I was out last weekend, I noticed the steering now has about 1/2 wheel of play.

I know there is an adjustment at the top of the box, but is there something more wrong here, or does it need adjusting?

Thanks for your help.

That is a LOT of play !!! I think too much to just be a tightening adjustment.

If there is a rag joint from a colmun swap look at that. Otherwise look at the entire steering and all components. Verfiy that everything is tight and well greased and in good order. THEN, replace the steering box if everything looks good.

Don't wait !! Gaining 1/4 turn of play in a day is serious !! and,,, don't drive it until you have found the cause !!

dv

 

[Rus-T65]

I looked at the rag joint and its ok. Most of this play is in the box and some is in the pitman arm.

 

[Rus-T65]

The mystery has been solved and resolved easily. The large jam nut that the steering shaft comes in from the top was loose. When I move the shaft, that nut was moving side to side with it. I tighten the nut and most of that play went away.

Whew, that was an easy fix. I wish they were all like that.

 

[dvalentine]

Cool,,, Keep checking that jam nut over the next few weeks to verify it is staying tight.

Nothing makes cruising more exciting than excessive steering play !!!

dv