'34 Steering Box Adjustment

[flathead34]

I would like to know what adjustments I need to make in the steering box of my '34 pickup to remove the free play I have in the steering wheel. AsI drive the steering wheel moves about 2-inches on the outer rim before the wheels turn. I believe the problem is in the box needing adjustment as I can move the wheel that much as the vehicle is stationary. Any help and insight would be appreciated.

 

[Andy]

Buy the 32 ford service manual supplement. It has a good explanation. Be prepared to have some bad words spoken. The adjustments are very sensitive and tedious. The adjustment on the side will not tighten it up like a modern box.

 

[PeteVS]

Make sure that your sector shaft bushings aren't worn. Also, all adjustments need to be made with the steering box centered (you might want to remove the pitman arm) by going full lock left and then counting turns to full lock right. Go back left half the turns you went when going right. When the box is adjusted per the service bulletin, the wheels should be pointing dead straight ahead. (The box is designed to "loosen up" as the car is steered to either side, but be tight when going straight.)