Hi everyone,I recently purchased a 1994 Bronco and have been working to address some sloppy steering issues. This spring, I replaced the power steering pump, steering box, steering shaft, and tie rods.Despite these new parts, the steering feels even looser than before. I’ve noticed that when I turn the steering wheel, the shaft moves but the pitman arm does not. This leads me to believe the issue is with the new steering box, which was a remanufactured unit from a local parts store.Is there anything I can do to adjust or fix this, or is it likely a defective unit? If I need to replace it again, what brands or specific steering boxes do you recommend for the best results?

 

The better way to check the steering system is to have the engine running,idling is fine.
You get under the front of the vehicle and have the person inside or standing outside the vehicle move the steering wheel left and right about 6 inches each direction and look for any loose joints. If you cannot see any then most likely the steering box needs adjustment. THE WHEELS SHOULD START TO MOVE AFTER ONLY 2 INCHES OF STEERING WHEEL MOVEMENT.

When you replaced the steering box were the wheels straight ahead and the steering box in the center of it's travel ?

Just a reminder, MAKE SURE THE VEHICLE PARKING BRAKE IS FULLY APPLIED AND THE VEHICLE IS SECURELY IN PARK !!!

There are 2 adjustments for the steering box which we can do if necessary..
Were the marks in the pitman arm and the steering box sector shaft lined up on installation ?

 

Thank you for the quick response.I checked the front end while someone turned the steering wheel, and there is more than two inches of play before the pitman arm moves. I confirmed that the steering shaft and its connection to the steering gear are turning correctly, but the movement is not being transferred to the pitman arm.I have already centered the steering box, but do you think repeating that process would make a difference in this case?

 

okay thank you I will try this and hopefully it works.