Is there a bolt on steering fix, or fixes, for my TTB?

[85_Ranger4x4]

I was totally ready to just bite the bullet and replace the steering box. It got downright sketchy on the highway.

Turns out the intermediate shaft between the steering column and steering box is set up to telescope slightly. There is supposed to be a plastic sleeve in between the two halves... mine had deteriorated due to age and had left the building.

I snagged a new to me shaft from the JY with an intact bushing and good rag joint and it steers great.

 

[rumblecloud]

Ummm...what's a rag joint?
Image anyone?

Thanks.
r

 

[Uncle Gump]

 

[rumblecloud]

DOH!

 

[Eddo Rogue]

I already did the rag joint, didn't know u joint was an option. Will upgrade.

Local reman box sounds like the ticket.

IDK to me theoretically, Rack and pinion seems not only superior, but a much simpler and easier design. I wish they had come up with it sooner lol.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

I already did the rag joint, didn't know u joint was an option. Will upgrade.

Local reman box sounds like the ticket.

IDK to me theoretically, Rack and pinion seems not only superior, but a much simpler and easier design. I wish they had come up with it sooner lol.

Not really x2 and not compatable with TIB/TTB.

Ranger used the same steering box as bigger F-series (as in F-150 and bigger). That is a ton of beef for a little truck.

As smaller vehicles go to rack and pinion for lighter weight and sportier driving dynamics the big trucks (now only super duty) are still using the same style box because they are stronger and hold up better.

 

[AndyB.]

There are a dozen parts besides the gear box that can make for loose steering. There’s also an adjustment detailed in the service manual to tighten up the box.

With in-spec parts and correctly adjusted, you should be able to hold 70 mph with one hand.