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Steering feels loose

Possum

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This is my first solid axle truck since my 1979 Chevy so maybe this is typical. But it feels like it's getting worse. I can rock the steering wheel about an inch or more in each direction while driving. And you gotta pay attention to keep it in the lane. I don't recall it being like that when I picked it up a month ago.

What can go loose on a solid front axle and does anyone have torque specs for the steering components?


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Zrojas

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This is my first solid axle truck since my 1979 Chevy so maybe this is typical. But it feels like it's getting worse. I can rock the steering wheel about an inch or more in each direction while driving. And you gotta pay attention to keep it in the lane. I don't recall it being like that when I picked it up a month ago.

What can go loose on a solid front axle and does anyone have torque specs for the steering components?


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I attached the torque specification pages from the service manual for steering and front suspension. If there is anything that you are looking for specifically that's not included let me know. View attachment Torque spec1.pdfView attachment Torque spec2.pdfView attachment Torque spec3.pdfView attachment Torque spec4.pdf

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npurdy1112

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My steering wheel has the same amount of movement before getting a response from the steering components. To me everything feels normal for a truck of its size.
 

Possum

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Just measured it and I've got over 3" of movement while the truck is off.


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jsalbre

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Because it’s a solid axle vehicle the truck will actually shift some on the suspension when you turn the wheel. My stock 2016 Wrangler was the same way.
 

Burn'n Oil

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Just measured it and I've got over 3" of movement while the truck is off.


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How much movement with the steering gear pressurized and the truck stationary? Recirc/ball steering gears can seem overly sloppy until the hyd pressure is up. I can move my wheel about two to three inches when the engine is off but it always returns to the same point. On the road it steers as well as a half ton with a rack.
 

RLange

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My 2500 with 1500 miles on it does the same thing.


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RamCares

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My 2500 with 1500 miles on it does the same thing.


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Sorry to hear this, RLange. If you decide to address this with your dealer and you are in need of any additional support for that process, please do not hesitate to follow up with us via private message.

Mark
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