Loose Steering

[RangerDanger94]

I have a 96 Ranger, ext. cab, 4.0, 4X4 and the steering is really loose. It wanders all over the road, but it does not seem that the tie rods or ends are loose or bad. I have a 94, and I replaced the tie rod ends, and ball joints, and it tightened the steering up a considerable amount. That may be the problem, but if anyone has any other suggestions on what it may be, it would be appreciated.

 

[Explorin94]

Check the play in your steering box.

 

[Evan]

Jack it up and have a buddy grab a tire and move it side to side, then look to see where the slop is.

I'd look at the power steering gearbox. Check for loose bolts from the frame rail into the box. Also look for a fractured frame rail.

A loose wheel bearing could also be the cause, but would probably be making some noise.

 

[RangerDanger94]

Alright, I will give those a shot... Anything will be better than what it is now. Thanks for the advice

 

[RangerDanger94]

We have figured out the problem. The driver's side upper ball joint is loose. The steering box is tight and secure, and there are no fractures in the frame.