Very sloppy steering

[precisionpowercleaning]

Hi all,

Just picked up a 99 f250 superduty crew cab with a 7.3. The steering wheel has a ton of slop in it and is kind of a handful to drive. I have had someone turn the wheel while I looked a the pitman arm etc.. That all appears tight. Looks like it is somewhere between the steering box and the wheel. Is the steering box a common item that goes out or mabye a ujoint at the steering shaft?

Thanks
Cory

[dieseldan2005]

The steering gears are prone to wearing out on these. Its the gear with 4 bolts on top that sits on top of the steering assy.

[Eric]

Mine was the same way after I lifted it. I had new drag links installed and now, it drives like a new one

[391dman]

I had the same problem. Aligned the truck, did all ball joints, new drag link, everything! Finally the other day I adjusted the steering box and WOW, worked like a charm. Its on top of the steering box in the middle. Loosen the lock nut in the middle and turn the alen head clockwise. I drew a white line on mine before I started to know how much I was turning. Went one full turn and it helped a TON. Still need to fine tune it. Hope this helps!

[precisionpowercleaning]

Thanks for all the replies. I have a feeling it's the steering gear. I was not aware that it was adjustable. Is it really just as easy as loosening the locknut and turning in the Allen head? How far do I turn it? Until there is resistance? Thanks a ton!!!

[391dman]

Originally Posted by precisionpowercleaning

Thanks for all the replies. I have a feeling it's the steering gear. I was not aware that it was adjustable. Is it really just as easy as loosening the locknut and turning in the Allen head? How far do I turn it? Until there is resistance? Thanks a ton!!!

I work in a shop so I had my buddy help me hold the lock nut loose while I ajusted the allen head. Took about 5 minutes. I went one full turn clockwise and it helped a lot! Good luck

[precisionpowercleaning]

I adjusted it last night and went for a short drive. It took up most of the slop. May need some fine adjustment but is a million times better!! Thanks everyone!!

[jeronlines]

i am trying to do the same thing, but obviously don't have the right tools. i have a socket set and allen wrench, but there is no way i can loosen the retaining nut. the reach is too long and moment arm too short. can you tell me what i need to get in there and loosen the nut? i am pretty new to auto maintenance, so pics do help

[7.3Lariat]

I have a smiliar issue with the steering feeling a little loose and the steering wheel seems to be off a few degrees. I thought I saw a thread somewhere suggesting the best new steering box to get but now I can't find it.

[jeronlines]

this seems to be a popular one- Red Head Steering gear box installed - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums

doesn't help me much now as i'd still like to adjust the nut first... if you're ready to do the full on replacement good luck!