Can't figure out loose steering.

[Streetbu]

I agree, but some of those rack/pinion steering systems are 20+ years old themselves. Hardly "modern" IMO. Still, better than the stock G-body styles.

However, I still believe that the steering issue in this thread can be overcome. It shouldn't be wandering all over the road, even if it is the old circulating ball type.

I'm wondering if there's some internal seal leakage allowing pressurized fluid to try to go to both sides of the piston and bleeding off some of what should be the high side during a turn? I know I'm digging outside the hole here, but from all the responses here I'm starting to think there's something wrong with the box hydraulics, even so much as the pump, or something's worn internally.

I do agree that rebuilt units are a crap shoot. They clean and reseal the outside of the units at least, but they hardly ever replace the hard parts. Which is usually why they're being traded for new ones in the first place. I know you've already swapped your unit for another one, but I just wonder if you're getting junk boxes or...???

OP evidently refuses to try a brand new box so instead is going in circles...

 

[69hurstolds]

OP evidently refuses to try a brand new box so instead is going in circles...

That's true. But I'd be a bit hesitant to go that route just yet as well if I had already went through two rebuilt boxes that acted the same. But if there's no slop in the steering shaft, and none on the linkage side and everything is in spec alignment-wise, there's only two things left. So it's got to be either pump or box.

 

[Kamloops cutlass]

Not everyone has $500 + to drop on a moments notice , give the guy a chance .

 

[Streetbu]

He has already replaced everything else. NOT saying it's cheap, but it's literally the only thing left.

 

[Kamloops cutlass]

I tend to agree with the diagnosis , but i understand him wanting or hoping for a different answer .lol
I need to buy one of those soon myself $$

 

[5spdCab]

Any chance of frame flex causing the issue? Possible past front end damage that could have weakened the frame in front of the cross member or broken frame mount bolts at the core support? Also, are the jounce bars still installed and tight?

This question leads to a second one, are the rear end control arm bushings good, and solidly attached? Does the steering problem happen, or is noticeable at all during accel/decel?

 

[Steve Bakken]

Sorry for the delayed response. Got logged out and didn't recieved notifications. No change between accel/decel. I have a low mileage box coming up from Nebraska from a good donor. Cheaper gamble than a $600-$900 new box. We'll see if it makes a difference

 

[oldsofb]

This is still going on???

 

[Steve Bakken]

Had some family issues to deal with the last few months, so i JUST got the car out of storage this past Sunday.

 

[69hurstolds]

Better fixed later than never.