I've done some searches but most have dealt with the lightning control arm problem. My problem appears to be different.

1996 F-150 v8 302

When rocking the steering wheel back and forth there is a fairly loud clunk that appears to be originating from the steering coupler (looks like a u-joint) at the bottom of the steering column right by the steering box). If you hold the coupler you can quiet the noise.

There appears to be a tsb about this problem #962521 but I have yet to see the text on the problem.

A couple of questions:

1. If there is a TSB on the problem is it likely that Ford would fix the problem free of charge or is there a mileage limitation? Is there a number to call to see if there are open campaigns on the vehicle?

2. If not, what's the fix for this? Is it the coupler that needs to be replaced or the steering shaft or what?

Thanks for the help
J

 

LIGHT TRUCK:
1996 BRONCO, F SUPER DUTY, F-150-350 SERIES
1997 F-150

This TSB article is being republished in its entirety to include 1996 model year vehicles and to include the latest level parts.

ISSUE:
A "clunk" noise heard/felt through the steering column when maneuvering in parking lots, driving in stop-and-go traffic, and driving over bumps may occur on some vehicles. This may be due to a "slip-stick" condition of the slider spring to the outer tube of the lower steering shaft.

ACTION:
Replace the lower steering column shaft assembly with a revised Lower Steering Column Shaft (-3B676-) assembly. For removal and installation procedure, refer to the appropriate year F-150/F-250 Service Manual.



OTHER APPLICABLE ARTICLES: NONE

SUPERSEDES: 96-20-15

WARRANTY STATUS: Eligible Under The Provisions Of Bumper To Bumper Warranty Coverage

LABOR ALLOWANCE



DEALER CODING



OASIS CODES: 303000, 304000, 702000, 702100



A TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) is not a recall. It is issued to the field to assist dealer personnel in identifying and correcting problems that that resulted in new information.

You dealer can run an OASIS report on your vehicle to see if there are any open recalls. This is SOP when a vehicle is brought in for service.

 

Thanks for the info. Does this mean a dealer will fix it only if it's within the warranty period?

thanks!