Hello All,

Hoping someone can help me out. I have a 1999 Suburban with 198k on her and she's got a little issue. There is excessive play in the steering wheel.

A couple years back, I had the front end gone through (complete bushing replacement, inner&outter tie rods, sway bar links etc...). On my end I replaced the steering box and put in a new rag joint. I simply do not know what could be plaguing the car with this issue.

Anyone experiencing/ dealing with the same issue? Some insight and a point in the right direction would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,
Cole L.

 

How about the steering rod ends? Might be those.

 

Also check the idler arm as well as everything else.

 

About how long do the idler and pitman arms last? because everything is relatively new up front.

 

They should last a long time if they are greased. Off road driving will shorten their life.

 

Thanks, I just ordered a new Moog idler and pitman. Checked my receipts and realized that the front end was rebuilt in 2012... a lot longer ago than what I thought. Hopefully this tightens her up.

 

You don’t mention getting it aligned after the front end work - did you have that done? If the tires are at either zero toe or slightly out, it can feel like there’s play in the steering even when everything is tight.

The linkage can be checked by having a helper turn the wheel as you look/feel for play with the wheels on the ground. The engine can be off (key on for steering lock) - you’re not trying to turn the wheels so much as loading the linkage - if there’s any play in the linkage, you’ll be able to see/feel it.

Don’t overlook the fact that the suspension can affect steering as well. Loose wheel bearings and ball joints, leaking shocks, worn coil springs (if equipped), broken sway bar links, and control arm bushings can all affect how your truck steers. If there’s no obvious play in the steering, inspect the suspension.