Steering Shaft

[1BadRS]

My 1990 Bronco II has a ton of play in the steering wheel. I notice when I turn the wheel and look under the hood, that it turns the shaft quite a bit before it actually starts to turn the wheel. Do the shafts wear out on these or is the problem in the gearbox itself?

 

[4x4junkie]

I've seen where the steering gear itself can develop a ton of play, if that's what you're asking.

There's an adjustment bolt on top of the gearbox that adjusts for this, though if the play is real bad (like a few inches or more measured at the steering wheel rim), the box is probably due for replacement.

If you mess with that, be sure to not overtighten it or you can bind up the box (jack both wheels up and make sure it turns freely across center).

If you're asking about the steering column shaft itself, things to check would be the slip fitting and the u-joints/rag joint(s).

Hope that helps

 

[PetesPonies]

You could have a worn rag joint or worn steering parts below. before you think about it being the steering box, check all steering components below.