Put some new tires and alignment done on the beast and now the steering feels a bit loose, I heard there's a way to adjust it on the steering box? Anyone know how? I'd like to get it quite a bit tighter.

 

There is an adjustment I think on top of the box. I think it has a locknut on it that you back off and then turn the adjuster. If you tighten it a lot, it will stiffen the wheel as you do, but should take up some slack. Ive never done it myself, my friend did it in suspension class, but I think its not a big deal. Somebody here has probably done it and could give you better instructions. If not, I will look it up in my ford manual later.

 

Just back off the nut on top of the box and use a flat head screwdriver to turn the screw clockwise. I usually turn it 1/2 a turn then drive the truck and see how it is. The correct way to do it though is to take the pitman arm off and put a inch pound torque wrench on the output shaft and adjust so you have the right amount of load, but thats a p.i.t.a. The other acceptable way is to jack the front wheels up off the ground and turn the screw a little bit then turn the steering wheel lock to lock making sure it doesn't bind. Keep adjusting until it feels good without binding, if you over tighten it and drive around like that you can really screw up the box.

Don't let that scare you though, it's really a simple adjustment. BTW has the steering been loose for awhile? Or just after the alignment? If it just happened the alignment guy could have left something loose.

-Jon

 

No it wasn't from the alignment...i noticed it after I put the tires on and before the alignment. It's because my last tires had more tread on the ground, theses new one's have a little more narrow tread.
thanks for the help guys!

 

Yes,
Loosen the lock nut on the steering box, turn the screw 1/8 turn clockwise, tighten the lock nut down.
Drive the truck and see how that is. It should be better.
Most people have only had to turn it 1/8 to 1/2 turn.
Best wishes,
Gene

 

My dad's full size Bronco has been loose for a few years, so he says. I've never driven it to see and never have checked it out for him. I guess I can take a stab at it now.