Common Suspension and Steering
Steering Box Play and Leaks
Symptoms
Excessive play at the steering wheel (more than an inch or so of movement before the wheels respond), heavy steering, groaning noises, power steering fluid leaks.
Cause
The recirculating-ball steering box wears internally. Seals perish and leak. Adjusters go out of spec.
Fix
Check for play by having someone rock the steering wheel while you watch the input shaft at the steering box.
A small amount of adjustment is possible via the screw on top of the box, but don't overdo it or the steering will bind.
If it's leaking or excessively worn, replace or recondition the steering box.
Parts are still available.
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