adjust stearing gear or replace??

[rydafoo]

my 1987 gmc s15 has a lot of play in the steering and ive already replaced idler arm, center link, and berrings so i assume its the steering box or gear if thats wut its called. ive been told by some that i can just adjust it to fix the problem but others say if i do it would just lok up when i turned,without the proper sevice manuals i wouldnt know how to adjust it if it could be, id appreciate any input, thanks

[N2TRUX]

Not sure if that's your problem, but some steering boxes do have a tension adjustment on top.

It should have a set screw with a lock nut/ Loosen the lock nut and adjsut the set screw in a small amount, then lock it down. Repaet as needed.

[rydafoo]

rite on thanks what would you suspect is my problem??

[joe231]

one of your problems is multiple posting.....

[rydafoo]

well i posted it here first and got no reply thanks for your input

[joe231]

Your welcome

[72lb4x4]

You might google how to adjust it but assuming this is similar to the age old Saginaw steering box, the adjustment is for preload, or drag as the steering wheel is turned. At least that's what I get from the words in the manuals for the 67-72 trucks.

You might watch the rag joint as someone turns the wheel back and forth to see if its gotten sloppy.

Also be aware that a rebuilt one may not be that well rebuilt. I replaced the box on my 72 K10 and it feels just as loose. I replaced the rag joint, steering link and watched the tie rod ends before replacing the box and it all seems tight. Still loose, but maybe I'm just used to modern steering feel... Now I just wander and wonder.

[N2TRUX]

Did you post the same question on 73-87chevy.com as gold84gmc? If so, it seems as if your searching for an answer that you want to hear rather than what is correct.

[rydafoo]

Originally Posted by 72lb4x4

You might google how to adjust it but assuming this is similar to the age old Saginaw steering box, the adjustment is for preload, or drag as the steering wheel is turned. At least that's what I get from the words in the manuals for the 67-72 trucks.

You might watch the rag joint as someone turns the wheel back and forth to see if its gotten sloppy.

Also be aware that a rebuilt one may not be that well rebuilt. I replaced the box on my 72 K10 and it feels just as loose. I replaced the rag joint, steering link and watched the tie rod ends before replacing the box and it all seems tight. Still loose, but maybe I'm just used to modern steering feel... Now I just wander and wonder.

cool thanks

[rydafoo]

Originally Posted by N2TRUX

Did you post the same question on 73-87chevy.com as gold84gmc? If so, it seems as if your searching for an answer that you want to hear rather than what is correct.

i posted it on this site at the 73-87 masag board but not as that guy just rydafoo answers that i wana hear dont fix my truck unless there correct, theres always gonna be some one out there who knows more about the topic than someone else, the more expert opinions i get the better i can make a semi-educated guess because im no genius or a mechanic so every lil bit of help is gold to me