Steering problem

JLATELLA

MEMBER
1998 CHEVROLET ASTRO
4.3L
6 CYL
170,000 MILES

Had to constantly move wheel to keep it straight. Mechanic replaced all steering components. Drove about twenty miles and lost steering control. Mechanic said all three bolts on the steering box sheared off in the same place.
He replaced them and the tie rod said it was fine.
It is not. Moves left at every slight irregularity in road.
Help. I need this converted van to carry my mobility scooter.

5 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,700 POSTS

Hi,

There are a few things that could cause this. First, you mentioned the steering components were replaced. Were the ball joints replaced? Were the control arm bushings checked?

One thing that is often missed is the steering intermediate shaft. There are two universal joints on it that wear out and cause excessive play. I attached a pic below of what I'm referring to.

Do me a favor. If possible, let me know exactly what has been replaced. If something was missed that could be causing this, I can let you know.

I will watch for your reply.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.

Image (Click to make bigger)

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Monday, June 27th, 2022 AT 10:15 PM

JLATELLA

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Both idler arms, tie rods outer and inner,
Cannot get image to load,
After lost steering control and had to be towed. Herea Ed gear bolts that had sheared off removed and replaced ball joint on one side and adjusted steering gear.

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Tuesday, June 28th, 2022 AT 9:58 AM

JLATELLA

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Both idler arms, tie rods outer and inner.

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Tuesday, June 28th, 2022 AT 10:06 AM

JLATELLA

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Are you relatively close to Trenton so I can bring the van to you?
My old mechanic retired and sold the garage over 1 year ago. He is a nice guy and has expanded the clientele.

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Tuesday, June 28th, 2022 AT 10:12 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,700 POSTS

Hi,

I'm sorry, but I'm not even sure where Trenton is located. I have a couple more questions. When you turn the steering wheel, how much play is there until you feel the tension and the wheels begin to turn? Also, I would have a helper turn the steering back and forth while you watch the two universal joints on the intermediate shaft.

Other than the intermediate shaft, the only other things I can think of would be if the steering gear is worn, tires are different sizes, worn control arm bushings, or if the steering gear is still loose. By chance, do you know if the pitman arm and idler arm were replaced?

Let me know.

Joe