Flighty steering, what to look for?

[WillSquared]

Ive noticed since buying the truck that the steering just seems very flighty or loose. I understand its a 30 year old truck, but still it seems excessive to me. I have a good 3-4" of back and forth sway in the wheel for general driving adjustments. So, having that said, what are the usual suspects that I should be looking for to replace etc? I also bought a stabilizer to add but I'd like to get it tightened up first before adding that.

 

[mtnmankev]

I would suggest you check all suspension and steering parts for wear, tie rods, idler arm, etc.
Adjust the steering gear box.
Wheels straight ahead, loosen the locknut and hold loose with a wrench while you tighten the adjuster screw (either a slotted screw or allen head). Don't crank down tight on the adjuster screw, very lightly snug is all you want to go, then hold the adjuster at that spot while you tighten the locknut.
I found on my K10 the pinch bolt that holds the pittman arm to the steering box had come a tad loose and I was all over the road.

 

[chengny]

Front wheel bearings tight?

Especially noticeable at highway speeds. I had one that - if I was distracted for even a moment - I could be two lanes over.

Went through every single front end part - all tight. Finally checked the bearings. They were maybe a 1/4 turn loose. But that was it. Brought them up snug and after that - the truck almost drove itself.

Just a possiblity.

 

[AJII]

Steering rag joint is where i'd start

 

[WillSquared]

Thanks for the pointers guys. I'll have a look at them all.

 

[marks86]

Ive noticed since buying the truck that the steering just seems very flighty or loose. I understand its a 30 year old truck, but still it seems excessive to me. I have a good 3-4" of back and forth sway in the wheel for general driving adjustments. So, having that said, what are the usual suspects that I should be looking for to replace etc? I also bought a stabilizer to add but I'd like to get it tightened up first before adding that.

alittle tip that a wise man once told me, if you put a new stablilzer on sometimes it will mask a bigger problem that you have, not saying your going to do this just wanted to give a heads up

 

[WillSquared]

Yeah, I agree with that. I'm not putting the stabilizer on until I have it sorted out and working well.

 

[Camar068]

check the bolts on your steering box and make sure they are tight. Square bodies are known for the steering box mounting holes to crack. Mine was the same way when I bought it. Turns out there's evidence of some welding on the backside of the frame where they did a repair....and didnt do it very well.

If they are loose, tighten them down and drive it for a few days maybe a week. If the looseness shows up again, further investigation is needed and possibly a frame brace for it.