steering wheel ?'s

[TeezySupreme]

So with everyone having a g body we all know the extra play in the wheel it's like you have to turn it twice because of how loose it is. I was wondering is it something i can do like the jeep upgrade or something but i was thinking those where for 81 and up model's but not sure but i have a 1980 cutlass and just wanted to know if i can get some of the play out if not it's not a problem though because i'm kind of use to it now.

Thanks.

 

[LS1GN]

Two separate issues: 1. The steering box can be adjusted (I just started a thread on this like 2 weeks ago). 2. Your front suspension and steering can have worn out components like the tie rods, centerlink and ball joints.

 

[TeezySupreme]

Two separate issues: 1. The steering box can be adjusted (I just started a thread on this like 2 weeks ago). 2. Your front suspension and steering can have worn out components like the tie rods, centerlink and ball joints.

Alright, im going to change those and look at your thread thanks.

 

[Geed_up_442]

LS1GN whats the link to your thread?

 

[LS1GN]

I read an article in Bangshift.com about it:

viewtopic.php?f=14&t=36628

 

[Geed_up_442]

lmao at how simple that was. Thought it would of been more involved. Thanks.

 

[TeezySupreme]

lmao at how simple that was. Thought it would of been more involved. Thanks.

x2

 

[pontiacgp]

in that same thread this was posted and be sure to read it...... it would be wise to follow Bill's suggestions IMO..

I've done this to many steering boxes in 35 years and just want to add a few notes of caution:
The textbook way to do it is with the box on the bench, using a beam-type inch-pounds torque wrench on the end of the sector shaft to measure the drag at the center point of the travel. Adjusting the preload too tight will reduce the steering gear's self-centering ability and it becomes a PIA to drive straight down the road. If you're going to shadetree the adjustment process, do it out on the road. Make a small punch or scribe mark on the adjuster bolt and a reference mark on the housing. Adjust a 1/4 turn at a time, with a drive after each adjustment to make sure the steering centers itself properly. Once you get to the point that the steering won't center itself easily, back it off 1/4 turn and do one final drive. It may take an hour or two to do, but in the long run you'll be glad you gave the job the attention it deserves.

Bill

 

[TeezySupreme]

Do they have a pitman arm for 80 cutlass i called 4 different auto part store's and the seem not to have them or can i use one from anther model car?

 

[billyjack]

The pittman arm has no wear points. One end is splined to fit on the steering box sector shaft and the other end has a tapered hole to accept the ball joint on the center link.The most likely causes of slop in the steering are the joints in the center link and idler arm, followed by tie rod ends and lastly steering box preload. If you have someone slowly wiggle the steering wheel back and forth while you closely inspect every part of the linkage for lost motion, you'll have a better idea of what to replace. BTW, I've done the Jeep shaft swap on my Camino. It's a great way to find that last bit of steering precision, but only after everything else downstream has been tested good or replaced.

Bill