I've got an old 1976 flatbed that has been in the barn for 20 years and I am going to put it back into service just for around the farm. I've put tires and battery and it cranked and runs. I need to change the gas tank and do a little tuning up but it's a solid old truck.

Problem is tons of play in the steering and I remember this as a problem when we parked it. Spin the steering wheel 3/4 of a turn to keep it straight. It makes for an interesting drive and like cross fit.

I've searched and talked to some ford mechanics but cannot figure out the problem. I'm guessing it is in the steering column but I know zero about that.

Anyone have an idea or can point me in the right direction?

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Posted by Hammertime

Will trade dowsing rod for titties

Member since Jan 2012

43030 posts

Posted on 7/17/16 at 5:15 pm to Martini

Jack it up and start shaking it and using a pry bar to move the joints. If anything moves, replace it. You could also tighten up the steering box.

Replacing all joints will only cost like $200 and tightening the box is free

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Posted by DownshiftAndFloorIt

Here

Member since Jan 2011

66763 posts

Posted on 7/17/16 at 5:22 pm to Hammertime

Yea that's pretty much all you can do.

I would also pull the steering wheel off and see if the back part that the steering shaft slips into is wollowed out

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Posted by Bama Shadow

Member since Jan 2009

574 posts

Posted on 7/17/16 at 10:10 pm to Martini

Check all bushings in the front end. Had a 78 Ford 4x4 the bushing was wallowed out in the drag link and it gave it half a round of play. Also on the steering box, I think it's tighten the bolt til it hits then back off half a turn but not 100%.

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Posted by Spankum

Miss-sippi

Member since Jan 2007

55979 posts

Posted on 7/17/16 at 11:05 pm to Martini

we forget how much slack used to be in those old trucks...

my guess is that it has rack and pinion steering and the gears are worn out...