all new steering from gear box down on 71 4x4

[mattfrediani]

Hey guys so Im in need of some good advice...Here is where Im at.
I replaced the rag joint and steering box, lifted the truck 4" and replaced the drag link and ends. I also installed correct drop pitman arm along with a new heavy duty ty rod and ends.

I mounted the steering box and spun the wheel from full lock and counted the turns, I mounted the pitman arm dead center to the box so I know thats alls good. Is from this point on I need a sequence to dial it in..

When driving I have side to side play. What is the best starting point to get all these new parts in sync, this truck is so nice but steers so ****ty. I have been searching youtube and forms but only get bits and pieces on best way to dial all the steering in.

Do I start with wheels sitting straight and align the front end to 1/16-1/8 max. And THEN remove any play from drag link, (What is the proper way to adjust drag link?) Then make a slight adjustment to steering box mesh screw if needed? (New steering box was from brothers trucks

I figure you guys would know the proper sequence for installing and dialing things in. Please note ball joints are solid

Thanks
Matt

[outfield]

Proper toe in is most important. Once that is set properly, you will see a big improvement in the way it drives. I would not think a new steering box would need any adjustment. Once the toe in is correct, adjust the drag link so your steering wheel is sitting correctly.

[Bigdav160]

Do not adjust the sector screw. That adjustment is done properly with the box on the bench and the worm gear preload measured.

Run your steering stop to stop to check where is it centered. With a lifted truck it might be necessary to adjust the stops to prevent rubbing and still get enough right turn radius. Then, like mentioned, set the toe.

Center the steering wheel with the drag link.

[randy500]

Watch the steering box and front frame while someone turns the wheel quickly left and right, often the front crossmember rivets are loose or the frame is cracked causing lack of wheel movement from steering input or vice versa, thus play in the wheel that is not attributed to tie rods and steering box. While doing this observe the tie rods and other steering parts for excessive clearances.

[57taskforce]

I'd check your leaf spring bushings and bolts as well as what randy stated above. If the bolts loosen up or the bushings go bad you get excess steering play. My K20 was all over the road when I first bought it because the drivers front spring bolt broke and wallered the spring hanger out. A few thick washers welded to the hanger, and it's much better.

[mattfrediani]

Thx guys, had over an inch of toe out.. Made some adjustments today and also had at least a 1/4 inch of play in the drag link. I could not drive it cause it was hailing out here in California today. The springs and bushings and shackles are all new so I got my fingers crossed it drives better. I will let you know... Its just going to be trial and error to get the steering dialed in

thanks again,
Matt

[joeydurango]

If you were over an inch of toe out that had to drive scary!

I shoot for 3/16" toe in on my K10, no adverse tire wear and it's super stable on the road.

[El Dorado Jim]

do not adjust the steering box!!