Steering Box Adjustment On '98 Half Ton

[carl425]

Well, I realized the other day as I was driving long distance that I have a good bit of play in my steering. I have replaced everything steering-related (tie rod ends, pitman and idler arms, center link, etc...) and had it aligned but there's still play. So, I had someone turn the wheel while I watched the intermediate shaft and the box and it's obvious that the play is in the box. I know there's an adjustment on it but don't know how to do it. My understanding is there is a set screw with a lock nut on it and that the set screw should be held, the lock nut then loosened and then the set screw tightened until you feel tension and then back it off a 1/4 turn and then re-tighten the lock nut. Anyone know if this is correct?

 

BTW, the vehicle is a '98 1/2 ton 4WD, Ext cab, Z71

[JS_GMC]

Well, I realized the other day as I was driving long distance that I have a good bit of play in my steering. I have replaced everything steering-related (tie rod ends, pitman and idler arms, center link, etc...) and had it aligned but there's still play. So, I had someone turn the wheel while I watched the intermediate shaft and the box and it's obvious that the play is in the box. I know there's an adjustment on it but don't know how to do it. My understanding is there is a set screw with a lock nut on it and that the set screw should be held, the lock nut then loosened and then the set screw tightened until you feel tension and then back it off a 1/4 turn and then re-tighten the lock nut. Anyone know if this is correct?

 

BTW, the vehicle is a '98 1/2 ton 4WD, Ext cab, Z71

 

 

I have a '98 GMC Sierra and have the same problem. Try adjusting the lock nut (located where the steering shaft comes into the steering box), it might be loose. If this doesn't fix the problem, there is an adjustment screw (the location of, i'm not sure). I do know that the gears in the steering box themselves could be worn, giving you the play in your steering. If thats the case, the steering box will have to be replaced. Try this website:

http://www.chevytrucks.org/tech/steering_box_adjust.htm , it has some good information that might help you!

[wesd]

Well, I realized the other day as I was driving long distance that I have a good bit of play in my steering. I have replaced everything steering-related (tie rod ends, pitman and idler arms, center link, etc...) and had it aligned but there's still play. So, I had someone turn the wheel while I watched the intermediate shaft and the box and it's obvious that the play is in the box. I know there's an adjustment on it but don't know how to do it. My understanding is there is a set screw with a lock nut on it and that the set screw should be held, the lock nut then loosened and then the set screw tightened until you feel tension and then back it off a 1/4 turn and then re-tighten the lock nut. Anyone know if this is correct?

 

BTW, the vehicle is a '98 1/2 ton 4WD, Ext cab, Z71

 

 

I have a '98 GMC Sierra and have the same problem. Try adjusting the lock nut (located where the steering shaft comes into the steering box), it might be loose. If this doesn't fix the problem, there is an adjustment screw (the location of, i'm not sure). I do know that the gears in the steering box themselves could be worn, giving you the play in your steering. If thats the case, the steering box will have to be replaced. Try this website:

http://www.chevytrucks.org/tech/steering_box_adjust.htm , it has some good information that might help you!

 

 

I have the same problem in my 97. It's going into the shop today to have the steering box replaced. From other forums it sounds like adjusting the box is a short-term fix, and this is a long-term vehicle.