I have a 1988 Ford F150 obtained about a couple of months ago. It had a lot of little things wrong with it and I've managed to correct most of them. Now I am confronted with a very loose steering, with much too much play. A local mechanic that I have been using wants to change the steering box, but I am wondering if I shouldn't just replace the entire steering column? Any ideas or suggestions?? Much appreciated

 

Steering box is the likely cause, assuming all your tierods, idlers and such are up to snuff, The column doesn't really add that much slop unless the rag joint (if so equipped) is trashed, and that too is a separate piece. Before you change the steering box you might try to adjust the play out of it. If it is the case that it must be replaced, Red head is the best, by a lot

 

My 95 had a lot of play in the steering when I bought it. I replaced all the inner and outer tie rods and that helped a lot. Still has a little play in it, but it's a 20+ year old truck so that's to be expected. But just replacing the tie rods changed it from a scary drive to something I'm comfortable driving daily and at highway speeds.

 

On the adjusting part, if one goes too far, the steering will not freely return to center after a turn - have to crank it back - that was my sign I done went too far.
Also, suggest to inspect for other play such as the steering box flexing when turning, indicating loose bolts or torn frame metal. Another area is that the input shaft u-joint doesn't have a problem.