Hi all and thanks in advance.

Have a new-to me 97 4x4 dakota with a few issues but the one that is the most worrying is the 3-4 inches of play in the steering wheel. (Left to right)

Was told that the idler arm could stand be replaced as well as the steering gear box but it was within specs.

when going through S curves it can be real fun or when changing lane and the blacktop is uneven. anyway.

A co-worker told me to tighten up the worm gear in the steering box. I am worried that if i do it wrong that the steering could lock up as I go down the road even a week or two after it is done.

Is this just a myth or has anybody heard if it happening.

thanks in advance

KillerKilgore

 

I have a '98 that has loose play but not quite as bad as yours. I did have a '95 that had play like yours tho. Did try tightening steering box but that just made it harder to correct for the play in the steering. The wheel return was tighter but the play was still there, so ended up putting it back where it was and living with it.

 

Thanks for the info gambler12

KillerKilgore

 

have you checked for play in the inner and outer tie rod ends? Also, check the idler and pitman arm's for any play.

 

yes, check the inner and outter tie rods, and idle and pitman, also ball joints could allow for front end play as well and wheel bearings. center link bushings also perhaps...just a list you can reference...

 

I know the idler arm and gear box is bad from the mec-a-nic
I think I am just going to put a new front end under the trk just like Johnny Cash, 1 piece at a time.

think i will wait on the wheel bearings/hub since it is 4x4.

thanks all

KillerKilgore

 

That's a Saganaw bocx. Done correctly, using a Chilton, Motor's manual ect, it will fix the problem. That's why it's designed with the adjustment screw.

 

OK thats 2 for and 1 against that adjustment.

Well even dad told me back YEARS ago that would fix some slop in the steering wheel. I miss that old f@#$er.

anyway

when i get around to adjustin' it I will report back to let everyone know how it goes. will prob do it this weekend. if I don't post back by wed send flowers.

KillerKilgore

 

Have someone move the steering wheel while you watch the intermediate shaft of the steering column. I know of a few people that have had the u-joints go bad. The upper one on mine is getting sloppy. Shaft is about $280.

 

been there drunk that.

shaft sections move as whole all way to gear box.

KillerKilgore

Little Johnny said "No teacher, it's a pencil, but I like the your thinking."