i have just rebuilt the front end on my 97 dak. even after installing a new gear box. i still have alot play in the steering. i am wondering if there is something that i am missing, like a adjustment screw or something. my chilton manual doesn't say anything about it. any help or info would be nice.

 

What about steering shaft?

 

that is all good. no play in u-joints on the steering shaft. plus i have changed both upper and lower ball joints, tie rod ends, hub bearings, pitman arm and idler arm. the only play that i have found is in the gear box. that is new too. i didn't see any bolts for adjustment. seeing that i'm just a shade tree mechanic, didn't know if there is something that i missed.

 

Inside I think they are called Tie Rod End were the tierod connects to the Rack and Pinion

 

i don't have rack and pinion. wish that i did tho. otherwise i would just switch it out with the 01 parts durango. but after looking at things. it would require a lot of skill with cut and welding to the frame.

 

sorry. forgot the mention that my tie rod ends mount on to the centerlink. so i don't have inner tie rods.

 

I suggest grab a good friend have him constantly turning the steering wheel back and forth as you look at every moving part of the steering system start at the steering shaft and work your way down to each side look for any slop at all.

Best you do the inspecting not him it’s your Dakota he will not be so inclined to be so watchful.

Also look at the suspension system for slop


One more thing look for things moving that should not be moving

 

looked it over, all the play seems to come from the gear box.. surely the is a way to adjust it? everything else is tight.

 

You may just need a new Box it may be missing some teeth or the worm gear bearings are shot especially if your play is bad like you say.

 

There should be a adjustment. Try downloading the manual on the header of this page or try Autozone. com under repair help. They should have a copy of the Haynes manual you can look at.I have rack in mine but any other truck I have adjusted with a gear box has had a set screw an a nut to hold it in place.