Excessive Play In Steering!

[dhodson2004]

1991 Chevy S-10 Blazer 4.3L 4x4 4Dr

For over a year now, the steering has had way too much play. You constantly have to correct the wheel while driving, otherwise you are all over the road. There is atleast 4" of free play in the steering wheel before the truck actually responds. I am not sure if it is the steering gear that is worn, or the pitman or idler arms. All four ball joints and tie rods are new. When the roads are icy and you happen to overcorrect the wheel, you do a cookie... i love doing cookies... just when I mean to. I need to get this fixed soon, I just could use a few ideas as to what it could be. Thanks to all!

[OffRoadSonoma]

You are in luck. Check this link out. It was done by another member on the forum.

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbul...d.php?t=510607

[joeuser742]

Well, I started out replacing my pitman and idler arm and still had play, then replaced all the tie rod ends and ball joints. It's much better. Now I need to find some time to do all the bushings, they are really worn out.

[rlith]

Originally Posted by joeuser742

Well, I started out replacing my pitman and idler arm and still had play, then replaced all the tie rod ends and ball joints. It's much better. Now I need to find some time to do all the bushings, they are really worn out.

The above linked article will definatly improve things too!

[maxwedge]

Nice modification, but first check the play in the gear box itself which is also common, many times this can be eliminated by adjusting the pitman shaft end play.

[ZL1power69]

could someone give a list of items to check if u have excesive steering play?

[rlith]

Originally Posted by ZL1power69

could someone give a list of items to check if u have excesive steering play?

Mainly you want to check your rag joint and the steering box, usually it's the rag joint though.

[maxwedge]

Idler arm, tie rods, center steering link, pitman arm, steering gear box, lower steering shaft rag joints.

[dhodson2004]

My brother adjusted the steering box but there is still way too much play. I think a new box would do the trick but a new one runs $162 with a $125 core from Advance Auto Parts. I am not sure what one goes for at a salvage yard. There is also the chance of getting one with the same problem.

[nickledimed]

Originally Posted by maxwedge

Nice modification, but first check the play in the gear box itself which is also common, many times this can be eliminated by adjusting the pitman shaft end play.

Is there a thread somewere or could someone tell me how to preform this adjustment. I have slight steering slop. I will be doing the intermediate steering mod this coming weekend. but I would like to know this just in case.