Too much play in steering

[jonecin]

Driving around the other day and I'm noticing a lot of play in the steering wheel. Anyone know what might be the problem.

[ringkingpin]

that's about as vague as a question as possible. No way to tell without being there. It could be a multitude of things, tie rod ends, bad U-Joint in steering shaft, etc. I had an old power wagon that had sloppy steering upon buying it. Found out the entire steering box was coming loose!

[insage2001]

get the front wheels off the ground and grab the wheels (tire) and shake it (both sides) to see if anything is loose.
There are adjustment screws on the steering box also.
You'll need a friend to help you determine what is loose if you have severe play in the wheels after you shake them.
I hope this helps.
Stoney

[jonecin]

Thanks guys! Sorry about the Vague question, didn't really know how to explain. I'll check the wheels off the ground today.

[64yellowbird]

Check the rag joint

[wisconsinjimmy]

To check the ball joints raise car so wheels have decent clearance and with a big heavy bar slide the ber under the tire and lift, if there is wear on the ball joints it will be quite evident with the movement. These cars had mush steering unlike today where you have to use some muscle these are designed to just float and very little input is needed.