steering issue

[iowaman0322]

i have some play in my steering, i've replaced the steering sector,tie rods, track bar and ball joints. i'm about to replace the the intermediate shaft so my question how much should this move by twisting it when the engine is on. the knuckles are pretty rusted. the steering wheel moves as well and the both knuckles. if this is normal would this get greater while driving down the road. i have a problem with my truck wanting to go from side to side. i have a 98 dodge ram 4x4 360

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[zman17]

I don't know what a steering "sector" is , but I'd say you need to replace the trac bar.

[iowaman0322]

steering gear box sorry not sector. i've already replaced the track bar.

[Cereal Killer]

Check these out. Maybe it'll help you.

http://www.dodgeforum.com/m_657750/tm.htm
http://www.dodgeforum.com/m_899062/tm.htm

[iowaman0322]

ok well i've tried those links and adjusted the steering. nothing has changed. i'm about ready to give up it's just a pain to drive with the loose steering. only thing i can think of is the intermediate steering shaft.

[zman17]

The intermediate shaft needs to be checked for sure, it could be bad along with the gear box. If you tried the adjustment to the box and it didn't help, then the box is most likely toast.

[iowaman0322]

i replaced the gear box about 4 years. could it of not been adjusted right then. how do i check the shaft or should i take it to shop.

[zman17]

Just have some one in the truck (without it running)turn the wheel left to right a couple inches, while you look at it. Pay attention to the ujoints and the slip joint. Also watch the box and see if the input shaft is twisting a lot without any pitman arm movement.

[iowaman0322]

if i were to replace the shaft should i wait to get an alignment or would it matter.

[zman17]

No alignment needed, the shaft only goes on one way.