I recently replace the steering box on my 87 IROC. The old one had quite a bit of play in it. The new one(remanufactured) is much better but still has some play. I've adjusted the tension via the top bolt but it hasn't helped. It's not much but still enough to be a concern. Is a little bit of play normal? BTW the rag joint has also been replaced.

Steve

 

Some play is normal. How much play do you have?
Are you sure the play is in the box and not worn steering components (center link or idler arm, tie rod ends).
Also I have seen sloppy tilt steering columns that have play in the column its self.

Have a helper work the steering wheel back and fourth while you look at the steering shaft and box under the hood.

 

inspect the rest of front end... centerlink, tie rod ends, pitman arm.

if the steering box was worn out the rest probably is also...

 

There is about 3/4 of an inch of play in the steering wheel. I've had a buddy turn the wheel while I watched the box. The play is definitely in the box. The rest of the steering parts are fine. One thing that concerns me is the box isn't an IROC box. I wasn't aware there was a difference when I purchased it. As I understand it, the IROC/Z28 box has a stiffer feel. Any opinions?

 

I have play in my steering but it isn't my box, its the shaft that connects the column to the box. Cant seem to find a rebuild kit for it anywhere so I just deal with it.
Try rotating the shaft with the steering locked see if your shaft moves. The IROC got a lot of special steering and suspension. It should be tighter than the RS box. Springs are different too so if you replace those make sure to get the IROC ones. The moog catalog lists them.