Steering play question

[tgfang]

I'm thinking of buying a stock 1990 Bronco. There is a lot of play in the steering when traveling straight; you sort of have to take up the slack to start a turn. The seller maintains that some play is typical of Broncos. I suspect that there is some wear in the steering components. So, is some play normal? Is it likely that I would be looking at an expensive repair if I buy the truck?

Tom

 

[Shadow_D]

Some play is common, I have the same problem with my 90. I've tightened up the steering box once but now I'm looking to replace the box.

 

[Burns]

Some play is common, I have the same problem with my 90. I've tightened up the steering box once but now I'm looking to replace the box.

I replaced the steering box twice (first was faulty) and it's still the same. I've replaced drag links, boxes, and added steering stabilizers, but still the same. It's only like 2 inches worth of play, but it drives me crazy. If I had to guess, I'd say it's in the column somewhere, because I have 2 spare columns in my basement I haven't had time to put in, and one is as loose as mine is now, and the other has no play whatsoever.

 

[Shadow_D]

Well that's good to know, maybe I'll start looking there. I've looked at it before and didn't find anything wrong but I guess I'll look harder

 

[tgfang]

I replaced the steering box twice (first was faulty) and it's still the same. I've replaced drag links, boxes, and added steering stabilizers, but still the same. It's only like 2 inches worth of play, but it drives me crazy. If I had to guess, I'd say it's in the column somewhere, because I have 2 spare columns in my basement I haven't had time to put in, and one is as loose as mine is now, and the other has no play whatsoever.

Shadow D and Burns, thank you for the replies. It is academic now because I must wait to buy a Bronco.

A message I found by searching the forum lists wear in the steering column as a possible cause of play in the steering.

Tom

 

[andre]

between stering box and firewall there a slide in shaft check for play in there may b worn also chek rubber at stering box sometime box leak oil damaging the rubber

 

[Burns]

between stering box and firewall there a slide in shaft check for play in there may b worn also chek rubber at stering box sometime box leak oil damaging the rubber

I'll have to check that, I never even thought of that. Thanks.

 

[firelt90bronco]

My steering felt better when I replaced the lower steering shaft and rag joint. It cost me $170.00 from ford.