"Wheel play",,,my steering wheel ,,,,questions.....

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(1)sloppy gearbox.can be adjusted.loosen top lock nut,turn the inner screw in.1 turn at a time,If you go too tight,then you will know by Not returning too center after a turn
(2)Pitman arm can be worn.Wiggle the steering wheel and look make sure the BIg nut didn't come loose at the gearbox,look for excessive play at the center link nut.
(3) steering coupler.attaches the steering column too the gearbox,Those do wear out,Again grab it and twist it back N forth look for movement.
Check tie rod and other stuff to be sure.But those are the 3 most common issues.

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#3 on this list is the most common issue....rag joint worn out. Flaming river sells a nice coupler which is what i went with.


Ron

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What would be the most common causes for my steering wheel to have excessive play in it ?
This is in my 69 Charger RT,,,,manual steering,,,,,
It is getting a bit scary to drive at times due to the amount of play in the wheel...

Steering box ????
if so,,,is this rebuild-able .... or should it be replaced,,,, ?

The front suspension is otherwise in good shape,,,so i dont "think" that is it,,,,,,,,,,,, ??

thanks,
Doug

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How old are you ?

This steering wandering is kind of common to all cars of the 60's and 70's.

If you are a subscriber to Hemmings Muscle Machines, you'll find this is a common complaint.

I also find the loose steering annoying, but after rebuilding my coupler, tightening the steering box, etc. I have learned to live with it. At highway speeds, the sloppiness seems to resolve somewhat.

It's all part of the "are you experienced" experience, LOL.