Community Forums

elgarc · 11-21-2022, 01:20 PM

1992 Ford 350 Class C new to me. There is considerable 'play' in the steering, very annoying. Is there something I can do to lessen having to turn back and forth?

twinboat · 11-21-2022, 01:45 PM

There may be a few things to do.

Check the tie rod ends for wear. Have someone rock the steering wheel back and forth and watch the tie rod ends for movement. Shouldnt be any.

Check the ball joints for wear. Jack up axle until tire is just off the ground. Grab tire at top and bottom and check for loose parts.

Check the radius arms for missing bushings. Look at the arms heading from the axle, back to the chassis. Should be rubber bushings on both sides of chassis bracket.

donr103 · 11-21-2022, 06:30 PM

You need to see what has the most play.. Shine very good flashlight under dash and with engine off.. key on.. check column for play.. check each u joint.. then under hood.. get helper to do same.. while you check rag joint.. they are just rubber isolation.. they rot out.. but 90% of time it's box.. but one more thing to check is the frame.. they crack at box or rust out bad.. a rebuilt box.. easy to find and replace.. you may need a shop to get Pittman arm off.. but rest is basic hand tools..
Get a basic automotive repair book for Ford vans and it will walk you through repairs..
Good luck and keep us posted

Unplanned Tourist · 11-21-2022, 06:48 PM

As others have said, check for any play.

Start the engine and have someone turn the steering wheel back and forth 3-4 inches while you get under and watch all the joints for any play.

avfordguy · 11-26-2022, 12:17 PM

Its a 20 year old chassis, plus its not stated the number of miles on the chassis. To start, do the easy stuff first, what is the tire pressure set at? Has it been weighed? Close inspection of a 20 year old chassis is zVERY important. Also check front wheel bearings for proper play and possible replacement if they have not been maintained properly.

AlanTerry · 11-27-2022, 06:46 PM

I had some play in my steering wheel and took it to a Ford Heavy Truck shop for an alignment. They found a part that needed replaced I authorized it and they replaced the part and did the alignment. The “play” went away and it does drive better. Maybe take it to a Ford truck place near you.

elgarc · 11-29-2022, 09:09 PM

I haven't been able to find the trouble. Your help is appreciated though. Think I'll take the advice of the last poster and get some professional help. Can somebody suggest a shop in the A.J./Mesa AZ area???

Thanks folks