2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Steering, not returning to center

[rolltideram]

I have a friend at work that now owns his late fathers 97 2500 CTD. He has a problem with his steering not returning to center. Turn left or right and it will not straighten up on its own. Any ideas? Thanks, JC

Edit: it is 4wd

 

[TAbbott]

I think it needs more caster. Should be at 5 degrees positive I believe. Also, it could be that someone monkeyed with the steering gear. If they tightened up the adjusting screw without being sure that the assemply was set at absolute "high point" they could have created a bind when the wheel tries to center itself from either direction. Someplace to start at any rate .....

 

[CShanosk]

What was the fix for this issue? I'm having the same problem.

 

[GeneA]

Get it in to an alignment shop. I had the same problem, and for a few bucks-- problem solved.

 

[KYOUNG]

The ball joints are too tight... ... ... .

 

[WestTN]

The steering shaft bearing clearance MUST be set before the sector clearance ( that screw on top of the box).

 

[steved]

One of two things...



If it just started happening, then I agree the balljoints are "rusted" or tight... there is a TSB on the issue.



If it happened after a steering gearbox install, then the adjustment is too tight as suggested, and the adjustment needs backed off slightly.



I have experienced both...

 

[DieselDoghouse]

OR: the castor and/or cross-castor are too Positive (or positive-going) and need to be reduced. Castor has the effect of a refrigerator door, when opened (steering turned) the door (aka truck chassis) rises and seeks to return downward (by recentering)—head for a reliable alignment shop!!

 

[DBraunig]

I've seen a lot of bent steering stabilizers cause the same issue it's free to unbolt it and try. My 2nd guess would be the steering box too tight.



Dave