Steering problem

[possum70]

Ok, I have been trying to fix a steering problem with my 78 blazer. It has what I can only describe as a steering delay. It's not slack. when I turn it, even a little, it will turn the truck, albeit a half second later. I've heard it being cracked springs (found no cracks), cracked frame (found no cracks), rag joint ( got the xj shaft put in), and ball joints (haven't noticed a problem but could still be that). Is this common and what should I be focusing on? I'm even willing to examine all the above again. So starting from a fresh issue, what are the possibilities and the likely order of probable cause(s)?

Thanks,
possum70

 

[rampage]

Steering problems are easiest to diagnose with two people, one turning the wheel back and forth while the truck is on (in park of course) and the other looking at components. This is done with the truck on the ground and with pressure put on the steering system while turning the wheel. Start at the rag joint, steering box, frame, pitman arm, drag link ends, tie rod ends, and spring bushings.

To check for loose bearings, jack up one side and grab the wheel at 3 &9 0'clock the see how much movement there is. To check for ball joints jack one side up, put a crow bar under the tire (with a 2x4 between the crow bar and tire so you don't damage it) and see if there is movement in the bj's when you press on the crow bar.

It could also be sticking front axle shaft u-joints, although that is more of a "wheel sticking" type of problem.

All these diagnoses 'can' be done by yourself but a helper is nice.

 

[blazer74]

Worn components will cause slop in steering along with slower response.
If nothing is loose and pump is in good shape I'd look at the steering box.

 

[4X4HIGH]

I would first look at a loose sector shaft adjustment, next would be to remove the steering box and inspect the frame really good (easier with the box removed), next would be TRE's and DLE's. Those would be the most common issues that would give you a "delayed steering" issue.

 

[y5mgisi]

I'mgoi ng throughthe same thing. I think iit's frame flex.

 

[drew4x4]

a gopro or a camera pointed at the steering system may help you.
i saw a video on the k5 facebook with a gopro pointed at the steering system where he turned the wheel and saw the frame cracks flex the steering box out 2" inches before it started moving the pitman arm and the rest of the steering system.

 

[K85 Octane]

is the XJ welded or bolted through the rubber joint up top? If it's neither, that should be done unless it's brand new

 

[Stomis]

I've had a tweaked spring center pin really throw me for a loop on loose steering before...