very loose steering

[fanojeeps]

I've had my '80 J10 about two mos. now. I'm trying to get it into a condition where it can be an everyday driver. My steering is very scary though. I don't have power steering. My problem is that there is alot of play in the wheel. I would say that when not moving it takes a good 2 full turns to turn the wheels a little, and while driving it floats right to left in and out of lanes while holding the wheel straight. Someone told me "it's probably the ball joints". Sound right? Any other ideas? How hard of a fix? I am not a pro wrench like you guys but I feel that I can fix anything, it might take longer but will get it done. :rolleyes:

[graham]

I'd check your ball joints, tie rod ends etc these could cause some movement. Most of your prob could be in the steering box. This could need adjusting. Two turns sound like a lot of wear in something. May even be the pitman arm, could be flogged out.
Somewhere to start looking.

[Crazy_Jeepman]

Are you sure your 80 J10 has no power steering? Strange if it does not! Ball joints do not generally give you loose steering as you describe, tie rod ends will though. However two turns on the wheel sounds like a steering box issue, I highly doubt tie rods would get you that much play. What you need to do is have someone turn the sterring wheel from side to side (till movement in the tires is JUST noticeable) watch all the parts that move, particularly where they connect, tierod ends to steering knuckls, where it connects to steering box. You will also want to watch the steering box itself, first be sure the steering box does not move from the frame when the wheel is being turned back and forth, You will be able to see the shaft from the steering column turning and watch where it connects to the steering box, there is a rag joint there be sure no play in that area, next have the helper turn the steering wheel from side to side just enough to make the arm off the bottom of the steering box move, the steering wheel should not have to be moved much at all to make that move, 1/2" wheel travel would be lots, any more than that, the steering box is bad. I wonder if there is a wrong box on your truck, You should have Power steering on it.