Loose steering box in '97 sierra?

- B
- Bob Truck
  
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posted
20 years ago

Sat, Apr 17, 2004 10:15 PM

Has anyone had a problem with their steering getting a little loose from time to time? My power steering seems to be fine (fluid level is fine, fluid is clean). Had my alignment done and the attendent said my steering box was a little loose. I checked all exterior connections(ie. bolts and lines) and everything was fine. Is there a universal joint or gears in the box that can wear out? Any information would be greatly appreciated, I do most all my own work on this truck(bought new\have 132k miles on it now) Thank You

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- Bret Chase
  
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posted
20 years ago

Sat, Apr 17, 2004 10:33 PM

you can tighten the steering box by tightening the adjusting bolt on the top of the steering box. (it's the allen headed one with a jam nut on it.) be very careful tightening it, if you've got to go more than 1/4 of a turn, your steering box is junk. overtightening it can crush the recirculating balls and/or cause the sector shaft to fail.

HTH, Bret

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- Bob Truck
  
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posted
20 years ago

Sun, Apr 18, 2004 12:47 AM

Cool...hard to get to...universal knuckle on my socket...it was torqued pretty well...couldn't get a feel for it due to it's placement so I adjusted an 1/8th of a turn......quick run around the block and it felt good...just have to wait till I get on the freeway and up to speed...that is where I noticed it the most (the same feeling as a motorcycle tire getting caught in the grooves on a highway). Thank you for your help! "Bob Truck"