Loose Steering

There is a lot of slop in my steering wheel, so much that nobody will align it. It is loose and doesn't get any resistance or steering through about 15-20 degrees. I got underneath and checked out where the steering linkage connects to the power steering assembly. When I grabbed the linkage right where it goes in, I found out that it was VERY LOOSE. It just flops around, almost like it is just laid into the hole in the top of the gearing assembly. It is making me very nervous now. Is there some kind of bushing that is worn out, or could it be the 3" lift kit that the previous owner installed? Does the steering linkage need to be lengthened for such a modification?

 

mine became way loose after i put my 2" leveling kit on =l

 

So what is the solution? Do they make extensions that I can install? This just doesn't seem safe.

What about this?

 

pretty sure that's worked for some guys here on the board. i remember reading an old thread but can't remember what guys were running to correct this along with vibrations

 

I just found this. That is not the right product. Those bushings are just for the mounts of the power steering rack and have nothing to do with where the steering linkage goes into the top.

I have a Toyota mechanic down the road a bit. Last resort.

 

I don't think a bushing kit is going to do enough to help you. You've got a bigger issues. Most likely going to need to replace the whole steering rack if it has that much play.

 

bad tie rod ends?