2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Steering Problems-Driving Me Nuts!!

[GTaylor1]

My '96 has a steering problem and I am having a hard time diagnosing and fixing it. I bought the truck new in '96 and have put every one of the 171,000 miles on it myself with the exception of the first 14.



About a year and a half ago, the truck developed this steering problem and it has continually become worse. Right now, there is a "dead zone" in the steering wheel from the 10 o'clock position to the 2 o'clock position. No steering activity happens there. When you move the steering wheel within this zone, the steering shaft moves, the steering box splined connection moves, but the pitman arm does not. It happens whether the truck is running or not.



Based on my searches in these forums, I have replaced the upper steering shaft bushing(the Rock Solid Ram one), the steering shaft (Borgeson), the steering box (twice, the current one is a Borgeson from Geno's), all four ball joints and did the over center and bearing preload adjustments.



The problem has become so bad that I am afraid to drive it. The forums have saved me thousands over the years and I would appreciate some input to help through this problem. Any ideas?

 

[DIESELWRKS]

I would look at upgrading to a 3rd gen conversion trac bar and put on a steering stabilizer. had same symptoms in past prior to changing all that you have and now truck is dead on and responsive.



Source Automotive is a dealer for DSS products. look at steering and suspension and you will see what I'm referring to.

 

[GTaylor1]

Thanks for the response, DieselWrks. And thank you for your service to our country! Your sacrifice allowed my family and me to pursue our livelihoods and I appreciate it.



I should update my signature because my truck is a 4X2 and does not have a track bar. The steering stabilizer at Source Automotive is beefier than any I have seen so I'll probably order one.



Any additional ideas, anyone?

 

[JMcCoy]

It sounds like the steering box. Borgenson now has an updated one that is "SUPPOSED" to hold up. Do you have that one? It's sold at Geno's Garage for almost $400. 00. Good luck.

 

[DIESELWRKS]

forgot also at sourceautomotive they will beat anyones price, I'm happy with the borg shaft and box. although there are others out there that may be cheaper on price. you should still look at a steering stabilizer if you look at your shaft end how it moves when the wheels are turned you would see how the stabilizer takes alot of shaft play and reduces it.

 

[GTaylor1]

Thanks, Guys. I appreciate your help! Looks like I will be adding a steering stabilizer to my Borgeson shaft and box.

 

[SRath]

It sounds like your gear lash inside your steering box needs adjustment. That is done by loosening the lockscrew and turning the adjuster nut on top. It looks like it is an adjuster screw with a locknut, but as I recall it actually works the other way around. This is a fine, delicate adjustment, so adjust in small increments and test it out.



It has been a long time since I did this on my chevy pickup, but it isn't hard at all. Just don't overdo it. I would think an internet search or factory service manual should cover the correct procedure better than my description.



If you are planning to buy a new box at this point, you really don't have anything to lose by trying this.

 

[B.G. Smith]

If you have a "dead" spot in the steering and the pitman arm is not moving the problem is in the gear box, it might just need adjusting but that's a lot of slack. bg

 

[GTaylor1]

I went through all of the set screw/nut combos on the Borgeson shaft and retightened each one. I also adjusted the steering lash on the Borgeson steering box. The steering is much better, but still not perfect. At least I don't feel like the truck is going to run into another lane or off the road completely!

 

[FireChick]

I had the same trouble on my '01. Got so bad it was actually kinda scary to drive on the highway. I added a BD steering stabilizer, Borgeson steering box and Borgeson shaft..... much much better!!!!!Oo. Now my oversized tires don't wonder down the road.