The excessive freeplay could be in the steering gear box or in one of the steering shaft joints between the column and steering box.
Raise the front end of the vehicle off the ground. Move the wheels side to side while having an assistant check for excessive play in steering components. Pay close attention to the pitman and idler arms. (Pitman arm is on gearbox, idler arm is on frame rail)
If all parts are tight, suspect internal freeplay in the gearbox.
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Monday, October 11th, 2010 AT 8:16 PM