OK I have a 86 305 5.0 V8 automatic. I have replaced the intermediate shaft on steering and have replaced the rag-joint. All the steering suspension checks out. I have welded up the famous steering gear crack and installed the wonderbar from TDS.

Here's the problem: Steering Wheel is sloppy only on right side of steering wheel. You can move the steering wheel 1 inch to the right before wheels will move. And there is no leak on the gear box.

What is the problem here? If anyone can give me any details on what is wrong here I would greatly appreciate it.

 

Bad idler arm possibly? It is mounted on the right side in the engine bay. Just a guess, hard to say without seeing it.

 

Update: the Steering wheel slop/play was caused by the tilt steering sphere spring was worn out. and the bearing race retainer crown was bent like hell. and lower bearings on the upper steering shaft was missing some little bearings on the right side of the retainer.