play in steering wheel

[geospider]

I have a fair amount of play in the wheel.
the wheel and the shafts and u-joints inside the car move well together. haven't climbed under to check shaft into gear box.
I have read that the gear boxes can be "adjusted' My service manual does not talk about this at all. Just remove and replace.
thoughts.

Geo

[azruss]

is your play at the center position (driving straight forward) and not there once you turn. If this is the case then your steering box is worn. There is a square nut on top of the steering box that can reduce the centerline play. If the box is worn enough, you will need to replace it. Also if the box is very worn, you will get a hitch in the steering as you leave the center position. If the steering is loose throughout the entire range, then look at ball joints in the steering linkages

[geospider]

Thanks,

\will give the adjustment a try; trying to get CA smog going right now.
I know the gear box had been replaced about 10 years ago.
will check all steering parts since I am doing the rest of the suspension too.

geo