How do you adjust the free play in the steering wheel on a 1998 Chevy S-10 4.3 L?

Answer 1

The answer to this question depends on which steering component is loose. I suggest youthoroughly inspect all steering components for excessive wear. for example: loose tie rod ends, ball joints, wheel bearings, idler arm, pittman arm can cause steering to feel loose. More components that could be to blame are the steering column and intermediate shaft that could also have excessive wear. Although this may seam like a lot of things to check it is important to know that the condition of these items are in good working order for safe vehicle operation. After all that - one common place to look for steering wheel play is in the steering gear, which on most vehicles with your steering configuration can be adjusted to minimize gear "backlash". On top of the steering gear is a short shaft with a lock nut on it protruding upward. Loosen the lock nut and turn the shaft into the gear One half turn at a time until gear back lash has reduced to a "normal" steering play feel. (this takes some skill and practice) Now the front of the vehicle must be jacked up and supported by jack stands (please always be safe when doing this) so the front tire are suspended. Now without engine running turn steering wheel all the way left to all the way right and very carefully feel for any steering bind. If any steering bind is felt turn the shaft back out until the bind is no longer felt. This procedure is best done by your local professional garage.