I just had my ball joints replaced last week. They did a good job on the repair, but this was a commercial tire store and my first time using them.

When picking the truck up, the guy started telling me he was "Worried" about my brake rotors being warped because there was rust on them. I rebuilt the brakes just six months prior and I know there wasn't nothing wrong the rotors. He then mentioned there seem to be some slop in my steering box.

I understand the steering boxes wear out. I made a long drive this week and I had a lot of problem keeping truck in the lane. The suspension was very stiff and that may be the reason.

So, maybe you can figure out why I would like to check the steering box adjustment.
Can I reach the box from underneath the truck without jacking it up to try and adjust?
How do I know if the box is beyond adjustment and needs to be replaced?
Any general advice on checking the box?
Thanks.. Gary

 

Good morning, it would be nice if you would give us a clue as to what year, model truck you are working on.

 

Sorry
I thought it was in my signature.
2001 Dodge 2500 4x4 5.9 diesel

 

This would be better in the 2nd gen forum, although the 2nd gens are notorious for poor steering, could be the trac bar or the steering box, have someone sit in the truck and rock the wheel back and forth while you are under the truck watching all the moving parts, you should be able to see what is loose

 

Crap.. not doing a very good job posting today.