[fasteddy]

I know you can adjust the amount of play in the steering gear box on my 1984 F-250, but I can't remember how its done. I have a little more play in the steering that I would like. If someone couls give me a refresher course I would appreciate it.
73
Ed

 

[Mr_Roboto]

Stud and nut on top of the gearbox. With the wheels ponted straight ahead, loosen the nut slightly, and while holding th enut with the wrench, run the stud in until it JUST bottoms, do not tighten it any. Hold the stud, and re-tighten the jam nut (tight).

Carefully test drive for any binding in turns. In severely worn boxes, it can bind in turns, and the adjustment must be backed off some.

 

[Zrob]

I've been dealing with sloppy steering for 3yrs now.

I'd say that allmost allways, it's something else, not the steering box that contibutes to excessively sloppy steering. Mainly the rag joint. After that, I'd look at kingpins/balljoints, then tie rod ends. Then, and only then, start messing with the lash adjustment. It supposed to take 18"lbs on the input, to get movement out of the output. That's with the steering shaft and the pitman arm removed. Think about how much 18inlbs is. A little more than finger tight

I'd bet that most peeps that mess with the lash adjustment, tighten it to much. Which leads to wandering steering.