[rfmaster]

Originally Posted by James McClure

RF, did it do this before the swap out? Physical positioning of the boxes is the same, so the likelyhood of the rag being defective in some way is remote. I would disconnect the joint and pull it back and then try to turn the wheels and see if it still has a binding condition. If at that point it does, and it didn't before, the overcenter adjustment is wrong (the nut\bolt assembly on top of the steering gear) loosen the nut just a touch while holding the stud still with an allen wrench, then back the stud out 1\8 to 1\4 turn and tighten the nut and recheck. There should be a slight drag or tightness when the box is centered (vehicle going straight ahead) Of course I am assuming you have checked ALL the other joints\connections in the front end. I might add, if it's 4WD, take a look at the front drive axel "U" loints. I don't know how many of those I replaced over the years, and they will cause all sorts of funny symptoms with the steering system. Jim

Thanks Jim

My truck is 2 wheel drive so I do not have front U joints to worry about. The two steering boxes are identical (same casting number) and the new unit was mounted in the same mounting location. Steering with the old unit did not bind, but it felt very loose - lots of free play in the steering wheel. Yesterday, after completing swap I went for a short test drive - truck runs straight and steering looseness was gone, but now I have a bind when I turn (L or R).

I'll check if binding is rag joint related by disconnecting steering shaft (easy), jacking front end and moving wheels by hand from L to R and back. My steering box re-builder specifically advised me against touching that adjustment nut. The unit was fully tested before shipped out. I'll give him a call see what he has to say about it. Oh yea, my rag joint was made by Dorman Part # 31015.

//RF