Steering Problem on a 67 F100

[kf6wxj]

Il not really sure where to begin but here is what I have. It a 67 F100 that started life as a plain Jane 6 cyl and 3sp. It now has a modified 390 that so far as Ive been able to ID has an Edelbrock Performer intake, a Holley 650 vac.sec. 4 bbl and an unknown set of headers. The truck has manual steering and 31x10.50/15's all the way around. I do have a set of western mags and smaller tires for the front but no tires for the rear yet. The problem Im having is the steering is REALLY loose. I can turn the stock wheel almost 90 degree's before the wheels start turning. Ive never worked on steering so I guess Im asking is it something I can do or should I take it to a shop which isnt really in the budget (Towing etc). Ide prefer to do this myself as I have a nice set of tools and some skill. Also what do you folks think about 215/70R15's for the front. Thanks, Bill

[fordman]

sounds like a bad rag joint in between the column and the steering box. maybe its ripped or torn or it could have fell apart or something like that.

[kaptnkaos]

Check out the "Rag Joint" it's where the steering column attaches to the steering box...
I think that would be the only thing that would give that much play...
I don't even think a steering box can be that worn out.
KaptnKA S

[kf6wxj]

Sounds reasonably simple to fix. Am I right? Bill

[fordman]

its pretty easy . just loosen the steering column bolts from the dash and remove the 1/2 12 point bolt from the coupler. pull towards you with the steering wheel and that will give the joint room to come off of the steeering box. remember where the steering wheel was pointing to get it looking straight again when your done.

[ezernut9mm]

i would work the wheel back and forth while someone else crawls around to see where the slop is. it could be a combination of worn parts or something as simple as the rag joint as stated by other posters.

[kf6wxj]

Thanks Gents. Ill be using your info quite a bit. Bill