Hey all,
I can turn my steering wheel about 2 inches either way without it turning the wheels. I have a 2004 XLT 4X4 Scab and after riding in my buddy's '04 with a tight steering wheel, i realized that this play was not normal. Once i turn the wheel past this "play zone" i can feel the wheels start to turn and then the steering is responsive and tight. It is especially noticeable when going at highway speeds on straight stretches, as the truck only needs very minor side to side corrections, but the steering wheel must be moved from the RHS of this "play zone" past the LHS and then just a minor steering correction. The wheels do not have to be pointed straight ahead for this play to be noticed in the steering wheel. When parked and the wheels turned, it still displays these symptoms.
I hope this made enough sense for somebody to help me out.
Thanks

 

gonna want to do a complee front end inspection. tie rods, ball joints, pitman arm etc... sometimes the steering box will get some play but your truck is fairly new so...

 

I think in 2004 Ford went to a power rack and pinion setup. So I would do an inspection of the tie-rods, other suspension components, and steering shaft. Make sure all is tight. If so you need a new power steering rack.

 

When I first bought the truck it had this loose steering syndrome. I also had it inspected at the dealership when i bought it (including the front end) which means it is probably something in the rack i guess...? I only bought it in january of this year. $%!# happens i guess.
Thanks guys.
Scooter

 

i have seen a couple that have had the slip joint in the steering shaft have play in it. they were both 04s also. id check that first. keep in mind it only takes minimal play in it to make alot of play at the wheel.