I have a 12.7:1 steering box that is only a couple months old. It was a re- manufactured box from a "reputable" independent steering shop. I've been feeling like it has more play than it should, so I just got under there tonight to have a look.

With the key on and engine NOT running, the steering wheel has easily about 6-7 inches of side to side play (hand at the top of the wheel) without any noticeable budge of the tires.

While under the car, I noticed that the vertical shaft of the steering box, the output shaft, has side-to-side wobble when I have a helper jiggle the wheel back and forth. The box-side of the pitman arm moves left-right about 1/16" (with the said 6-7 inches of steering wheel play) while not appearing to actually rotate at all like it should.

How does this sound for what should essentially be a BRAND NEW box?

 

I'm not an expert but it sounds like a lot. My box Is worn out and it has that much travel(creeks). I'd say pull it out and take it back.

 

There is definitely something wrong with your box. I replaced mine with a Carquest reman unit and it took every bit of play out of my steering. Even with my worn out original box, I would only get 3 - 4 inches of side-to-side play. As bad as that was, I can't imagine trying to drive a car with 6 inches of play in the wheel.

 

does that carquest steering box work well? i'm interested in getting a shorter steering ratio and carquest is awesome.

 

Before you go and replace the steering box. I would replace the rag joint. The rubber joint that connects the steering shaft the the steering box. The rag joint is only 10-15$ much cheaper than a new steering box.

 

The box IS new. And I can clearly see both sides of the rag joint moving together and as one, the play is in the box.

 

The Carquest box in mine has been great. I just asked for the stock replacement for my Z28 and have been very happy with it. My only regret is that I had to replace my power steering pump a month later. Wish I had done them both at the same time instead of having to drain the system twice. Now all is good.