Steering linkage question... Does this look correct?

So a few weeks ago I had a leak in my tranny cooling line... Had it replaced. Over time I feel like my steering wheel has "play" in it... About 1/2" or so. I get under and where the universal slides on doesn't look like it's on all the way (see pic). Can anyone confirm it needs to slide on further?

 

Are you thinking you are getting play from that?

 

Yea, if it's not seated all the way, would it cause the play in the steering wheel?

 

There’s a relief in the shaft so the bolt can go thru the coupler so if the bolt is in there don’t worry about it.
You could always pull the bolt out and check for peace of mind.

 

Gotcha... a lot like my family's tractor, I couldn't feel the bolt, I guess I'll have to get further under and see.

If that's not it, what would typically cause "slop" in the steering? I see the linking move right next to the firewall when I turn the wheel, so it's after that area shown in the pic.

 

That would not cause any play not being fully seated, to verify thats not a concern just try to pull it apart and that the bolt is installed.

Honestly depending on how you're checking for the play in the steering wheel 1/2 could be fine.

Easiest way to check is to have someone rock the wheel back and forth with the engine off decently hard at a steady pace and put your hand around the various suspension component joints where they bolt to the knuckle and feel for play. The steering rack may move a little. Maybe 1/4-3/8" tops. If thats good and you wanna make more sure then jack up the front end and have it supported under the lower control arms as close to the wheel as possible and the weight of the truck on the supports. Then manually shake each wheel and feel for play or have someone shake and someone else feel the joints as before with a hand around the joint and knuckle. If thats good you might be a little toe'd out and need an alignment.

if it drives fine though I wouldn't worry about it

 

Mine is on all the way, but if you have play, that's not where it's coming from..

 

Yep, stuff to try...

Play in the steering wheel is something that is a pet peeve of mine and can not handle.

 

If that was causing play you'd see it at the joint if someone rocked the steering wheel. Looking at the splines it appears it was installed further down the shaft at one time.