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[wittmeba]

I have a 2001 Ford F250 Diesel.

The problem I am having is constantly having to correct steering while driving straight down a highway. There just seems to be 1 - 1.5 inches play in the steering wheel that doesnt get to the tires.

I have had 3 of 4 ball joints replaced (the 4th is ok verified by 2 sources), replaced the pitman arm joint, new tires (Revos), adjusted and readjusted the steering gearbox tension and had the steering column colapse joint welded to remove any possible remove any possible movement that may not be transferred from the steering wheel to the wheels.

During the front end alignment, a specialist increased the caster to 4.5 degrees and it all helps, but doesnt eliminate the problem. He also indicated Ford trucks like this have a steering problem and has seen this same problem with others. He didnt have a fix or solution.

About the only thing left is the steering box and rag joint. Anyone replaced the steering box and what kind of project was it? How do you determine the number of teeth on the spline 32 or 36 (8 or 9) << been listed both ways?
Look here: 2001*Ford*F Series Trucks Select Model from Power Steering Pros

Any ideas on cost and complexity of DIY? Time? Special tools?

Thanks,
Bruce