I figured now is as good a time as any to ask. I was wondering how much play my 88 d150 should have in the steering. It has power steering. It steers super easy but seems to have a little bit of play. I know on older trucks this can be normal sometimes. Just trying to get a feel for it. Thanks.

 

Reall, any play in the steering is because of wear. If you have more than 1-2 inches I'd try and fix it...or if it just seems sloppy to you. When I bought my W150 it was hard to stay in the center of my lane without concentration.

These trucks are notorious for the socket between the gearbox and the start of the steering column to wear out and cause a lot of slop. If it is still pretty tight you can get a repair kit from Dodge for $15-20. Mine was so bad I had to buy a new housing too so the total was around $75.

If that looks ok on your truck I'd check the steering linkage. You should not have any visible play in any of the tie rod ends or other joints.

Derek

 

The actual steering gearboxes themselves are adjustable too. It has a set screw on it for tightening up play. I wouldnt recommend doing it yourself without some reasearch though.

 

PushnFords

you have a pic of the area you are talkin about?

 

no, it just seems loose at the wheel. Thats alright though, because i'm getting to the point with this truck that i'm ready to eat the three grand i have into it and just start bashing it in with a sledge hammer. I've never owned such a piece of garbage in my life.