2000 Durango has approximately .5" to 1" free play in the steering wheel. I'm pretty darn sure sure its not in the steering linkage(rack, tie rod ends or tie rods, etc.) but could be possibly originate in the column. Anyone experience this or know what it could be? I don't feel it is unsafe but it's very aggravating.

 

Id be SURE it isn't in the linkage or steering gear, or its mounts, etc... if it is a loose part ready to "let go".... yikes. check the steering shaft real good, from the end of the column to the steering gear. there's 2 U joints in there that are known for going bad..... common to have to replace.

 

Thanks....... I've been analyzing all that but nothing conclusive yet. A couple of suspects. Great advice. I'll let you know what I find. Dave.

 

Volare you nailed it! Closer inspection of the coupler to the steering gear showed slop there. Seems corrosion eating up some steel on the u-joint cross created some clearance inside the hole it fits into. Doesn't look safe either. Rock Auto has an Ultra-power lower shaft for $55.99.......doesn't sound too bad.

 

just ran into this very problem on a (gasp) F150 that came into work today.....