steering

[m4]

I'm working on a 91 Burb front end. This is the second time I've rebuild the front end in about 3 years. The first time everything was replaced except upper and lower ball joints. This didn't help the vague steering issues. I went through it again in april07 this time new ball joints, axle u-joints, tie rod ends etc. The Burb drives like crap, handles like crap. The only thing I can think of is I didn't replace the steering arm nuts (3) when I took apart the front end. Could this be the problem? This is a street only Burb, it feels like the newer steering gear box has a huge amount of play in it. I'm no pro mechanic but have been wrenching for 25 years.

First time rebuild the following was replaced
1. steering gear box
2. power steering pump
3. drag link ends, tie rod ends all wheel bearings, hubs ,discs, pads, alignment

Second time rebuild
1. upper and lower ball joints
2. tie rod ends axle u joints ,repacked wheel bearings, alignment

 

[ccatlett1984]

have you replaced the "rag-joint" on the steering shaft. its the rubber piece that bolts to the box. you can eliminate this rubber connection if you get the steering shaft from a jeep cherokee. its a bolt-on mod that should help with the vague sensation. you could also try tightening up the steering box a little bit and see if that improves it.

 

[Hogback Fabrication]

have you replaced the "rag-joint" on the steering shaft. its the rubber piece that bolts to the box. you can eliminate this rubber connection if you get the steering shaft from a jeep cherokee. its a bolt-on mod that should help with the vague sensation. you could also try tightening up the steering box a little bit and see if that improves it.

Don't tighten the adjusting nut on the top of the box unless you really know how to do it, if you overadjust it your steering will bind.

Have someone else move the steering wheel and look under the truck to see if there is any play in any part of the steering.

 

[m4]

I don't want to adjust the steering box, but will replace it under warrenty if i have to. I need to check the rag joint though. Thanks Shawn

 

[bigblock72]

Did you properly set the ball joint preload when you replace the B.J.s?
If you don't set it properly then the driver's steering knuckle can wiggle around on it's stud from the steering load. I've seen a lot of people (even pros) make this same mistake. It's easy enough to check, just remove the nut from the upper ball joint and back the collar off a couple of turns with the right spanner socket then tighten to 40 ft. lbs. and reassemble.

 

[m4]

I followed a detailed thread from a search ,when adjusting the preload so not worried there. There's a lot of wheel slop before front end responds.

 

[bigblock72]

Probably in the steering shaft or the steering box.

Have someone turn the steering wheel back and forth in the free play while you look for slop between the steering wheel and the tires.

If the steering box looks like it is sloppy inspect the pitman arm and make sure it isn't sloppy on the splines before you go through all that work for nothing.

Also you didn't mention if the 'Burb was lifted or not but make sure the drag link is level or close to level.

 

[m4]

My wife turned the steering wheel while I looked at the front end. The input shaft on the steering box moved quite a bit before the pittman arm moved. The steering's not loose but has to much play! Also no lift.

 

[BKinzey]

Well There's your PROBLEM!

Wish I could tell you how to fix it

 

[Copasetic]

Well There's your PROBLEM!

Wish I could tell you how to fix it

Ouch!

 

[imiceman44]

My wife turned the steering wheel while I looked at the front end. The input shaft on the steering box moved quite a bit before the pittman arm moved. The steering's not loose but has to much play! Also no lift.

Well last time I had that problem, the bolt holding the pitman arm was lose, tightened it and all was good, maybe you would be so lucky.
Otherwise the splines are worn out eithe on the arm or the shaft.