Power steering play.

[cedral]

My 1979 Ford F-250, 400M engine, C6 Trany has an aproximate 15 degree dead zone in the steering where it doesn't turn the wheels. I want to tighten it up because it scares my girl to drive it. Where would I start to fix / diagnose the problem?

[Scrapper]

so your saying it's got about 1/4 play before it turns? if so you might need ajust steering gear or get a used or new sterring box from salvage yard. there are to justments on the box. but have you checked all front end parts like center drag link,iner and outer tie rods ends? it could be power sterring pump it's self.

[way2old]

There is an adjustment on the steering box, but if you are not familiar with the procedure, it will only get worse. You may want to talk to a shop about the repair. The adjustment is very touchy going from too loose to too tight. Here is a link to the adjustment procedure. Your call if you want to do it.
Click here for information.

[Scrapper]

yes i should have put that on there about ajusting you go to far one way or another it could bind up on you. figured you take it to get a alignment.still i betting on gear box or power sterring pump is shot. you might even look under it while someone turns the wheels because you gear box might be seperated from frame or getting ready to.