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My steering feels quite sloppy so I pulled out the old manual and read up on adjustments of the worm bearings and also backlash. My steering feels very loose and also once in a while I get what I call a "death wobble". Since I'm not sure exactly what "backlash" is or what the worm bearings adjustment will do I thought I'd ask you guys before tearing into these parts. I am putting on new tires next week if that matters.

Sorry for the delay in responding, Nanuke. Your question could be simple, or complex. My steering had 1/3 of a turn before the wheels started to pivot! I started by checking the drag links-each of the ends has a spring-loaded assembly that applies pressure to the ball when the end caps are tightened. I would start by inspecting, removing, cleaning, and reinstalling them to see if this is the reason for your loose steering. Don't be surprised if the springs are broken-3 out of 4 of mine were, and the kits can be had for around $30 bucks each (you'll need 4 total). If the drag links are ok, then it's up to the steering box. I don't have the adjustments readily available for the box-mine was so worn out that I replaced the entire steering gear (thanks Charles!). Anyway, once I did that I have less than 1 inch of play in the steering, and no wobbling around.
Gary

Good advice Gary. I took it all apart yesterday and was able to adjust the steering box(both worm gear and backlash). It was quite obvious that the linkage needed grease badly and adjustment as well.
Thanks

speaking of those spring loaded links... I just got done putting new links and end kits on mine... how much preload should be applied to them? I ran mine all the way down, and then backed them off 1 full turn... seems to work ok, but, Im sure there is a spec for it.

Hi Josh,
I never did find a spec for this, so I tightened mine all the way down then backed them off a 1/2 turn so the spring tension could do its job. My biggest challenge was breaking the end caps loose-one bent a new Snap-on T15 socket 45 degrees!
Gary

Gary,

As long as you don't break something on the truck its ok......the Snap-on tools get replaced for FREE.

The timing of your post couldn't be better, Highway-just got back from replacing my Craftsman 1/2 x 3/8 drive reducer-gave it up after 20+ years (back when Craftsman's were REALLY Craftsman's).
Gary

Gary, (back when Craftsman's were REALLY Craftsman's). That sure is true. I would venture to say that you will break that new reducer allot easier than the old one. (I'm not brand bashing either)

I just dealt with a sears rep yesterday trying to replace a broken drag link socket. They looked at me like I had 2 heads....told me they had no idea what one was then told me they don't carry them. After asking how I'd redeem the lifetime warranty they looked in their catalogue and found one. Idiots in teh tool department and no one speaks English.... Where can I buy snap-on???

Rick C, You will have to stop by a local automotive repair shop and ask them who the local area dealer is. If that is not an option, call 1-877-762-7662 for Snap-On National Customer Care Center.