play in steering
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 17
Likes: 0
From: warsaw il.
play in steering
replaced control valve about a month ago because old one was leaking, it had great steering for a while now it seems to be loose and has about a quarter turn on the wheel when moving. would it be the control valve or possibly be the steering box. the valve was a rebuilt one from ecklers.
Last edited by trackdogg; Oct 25, 2004 at 08:55 PM.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Sep 2000
Posts: 1,079
Likes: 0
From: Richmond VA
I had the same issue, and found the problem to be in the coupler. replaced, and adjusted the box a bit and things were much tighter. still have a little play, but I chalk that up to 36 years young 
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 8,812
Likes: 2,029
From: eastern NC
I always check the easiest things first...
If the suspension is original, always check the rag joint. I've seen originals bad in as little as five years back in the 70's. Have someone move the steering wheel back and forth gently for you while you look closely at the rag joint. If it's bad you'll see it easily as the steering shaft will move somewhat independent of the shaft into the steering box.
Second if all's well with the rag joint, check the idler arm. It's an often overlooked steering component that when bad will add slop in the steering. If you replace it go with the heavy duty one, it comes with the grease fittings and is much more durable.
If you decide it is the steering box, I recommend pulling it and sending it off to Van Steel. You won't be disappointed. Yes you can rebuild them, but steering box set up can be tricky and never pass up the opportunity to have a professional do the tricky stuff.
GUSTO
If the suspension is original, always check the rag joint. I've seen originals bad in as little as five years back in the 70's. Have someone move the steering wheel back and forth gently for you while you look closely at the rag joint. If it's bad you'll see it easily as the steering shaft will move somewhat independent of the shaft into the steering box.
Second if all's well with the rag joint, check the idler arm. It's an often overlooked steering component that when bad will add slop in the steering. If you replace it go with the heavy duty one, it comes with the grease fittings and is much more durable.
If you decide it is the steering box, I recommend pulling it and sending it off to Van Steel. You won't be disappointed. Yes you can rebuild them, but steering box set up can be tricky and never pass up the opportunity to have a professional do the tricky stuff.
GUSTO
