From what I've seen, I'm probably going to have to tighten my steering gear box and/or replace my tie rod ends. I am pretty sure they're getting worn out. I was wondering if anyone had any other ideas or if they could post a picture to find where the steering gear box is on a 96 F150 with a 302 ci and 4wd. Thanks.

 

Funny stuff....where's the steering box. We all gotta start somewhere but you might want to just take it to a shop.

 

I just spent close to 2 grand to make the truck pass inspection. I'm trying to save a little money here. But I found it. From what I understand its not hard to do. But it looks like the tie rod ends should be replaced first.

 

First order of business should be a Hayne's or Chilton's manual...it's not hard to do, but you'll probably benefit from a step-by-step guide.

 

I replaced my steering box, you will need an impact gun and a pitman arm puller...the power steering lines are annoying to get them in right. I had access to a full pro 14 bay mecanic shop and i struggled a bit with the lines. I recomend replacing the line as well if the box is warn out. as well as keeping the steerting columb and wheel stright when you remove it. and after get an alignment.

good luck with the task and that steering box is a good 40lbs if not more filled. 3 bolt hold it on the frame do them last and watch the hell out it could fall on you!

 

If you can't find the steering box you probably shouldn't be trying to adjust it. Easy to adjust, just as easy to f*ck it up.

 

You spent 2 grand to make the truck pass inspection and it has loose steering and worn tie rods?....how did it pass this way? Lol

 

Where did the op say he wanted to replace the steering box?

 

What everyone is saying about not knowing where the box is is that you must understand what you are doing before you mess with it. Wrong adjustment can cause hard steering, poor alignment, the tensioner to brake or the steering to lock. A manual is a great idea and all good mechanics and technicians use them. Start with the tie rods, ball joints, column slip joint, steering column, bearings, bushings, shocks springs and tires. Those control the steering, the free play and the slop. Once those are inspected, replaced or adjusted as needed have the alignment corrected. The box adjustment only makes it harder to move the wheel off center. If the box has took much play in it it should be replaced. The adjustment won't remove free play. A lot of people over tighten the adjustment because it makes the steering feel tighter at the wheel but it doesn't fix the actual steering issues.

 

If he trys to adjust it he most likley its going to end badly its best to replace it...more or less a suggestion. considering if he had trouble finding it....




Also to the OP you spent 2k on it to pass and still have a loose front end???? what state are you in because my ball joints gone on my truck and could use a sticker