The steering on my car has considerable play; I can move the steering wheel quite a bit without moving the tires.

I determined that most of the play is in the steering gear. Is the gear serviceable/repairable, or should I just replace the whole unit?

Also, while I'm at it, is there any other parts along the steering column that I should check/replace?

 

Here's how to cheat.
Go get the STEERING LINKAGE CHECKED.
Mine is shot, including center link.
So far lowest cost I have is $232 for all parts plus (for me) $12 shipping
NEXT
locate the RAG JOINT in the steering column in the engine bay.
CHECK THAT cause that's probably also worn, too.

Steering box is the absolute last thing ya should touch IF AT ALL!
And I wouldn't touch that steering box, go find another one to slip in (from a later model F body, also!).
Pitman arm is a total non wear item. All other linkage parts fail due to usage & abuse.

 

Well, the thing is, I took that plastic cover off the steering column right at the box, and watched as the steering was turned just enough so that the tires didn't turn. The pitman arm didn't move at all either. So I held the column right at the box as the steering was turned and there was no play. So I determined that all that play must be in the box.

If you still think I shouldn't replace it, let me know.

 

I think your rag joint is shot.
It is covered by that plastic cover.
I'd go to GM Dealer & ask to have a look see at those exploded diagrams of that area.
I seriously think your rag joint is shot.
For a double check, go ask for one at a parts store.
When ya see a rag joint in your hand, maybe your determination of wear may be stronger (Steering box or Rag Joint).

I have replaced a rag joint on several of my rides.
It's a $10-$15 fix & makes a WORLD of differnce.
Steering boxes are usually last resort.

 

You seem determined, so I'll go with checking out the rag joint first. Thanks for the advice. BTW, I have Chev shop manual for my car, so I have all the exploded diagrams. If the rag joint is sort of hidden just inside the box, then that could be it.

So is there a technical name for the rag joint? What does it look like?

 

That's why I suggested ya seek out the replacement at a parts store!
It's right at end of steering shaft & before the steering box.
It's round fabric feeling item.
It's held on shaft by a 12 point 10MM bolt.
Then it's connected by a coupling. These items are removable for replacement of rag joint.
Have someone in car give a few twists of steering wheel back & forth (NOT moving wheels).
You may need be under car to see the rag joint better.
I hope my clues help ya.

 

I assume it's that joint that is a round piece of rubber sandwiched by two pieces of sheet metal. I found someone's site on the web which suggested a modification to beef it up. It involved buying two replacement joints. Also, I believe it's called the steering coupler as it's technical name.

I guess you can tell with all that I've learned about cars in general by working on my camaro, that in 5 years I haven't touched the steering.

 

I went looking in my Helms book earlier for anythign to assist ya.
Yeah, I found the "coupler" name also.
All ya need do is buy a new one & replace it.
Then after driving for a few days/weeks, retighten EVERY NUT that was loosened.
It's not too difficult a replacement mission.
Make sure all wheels/steering wheels are aligned, STRAIGHT before ya start removal.
I hope that is the problem for ya.

 

Thanks for the help.

 

Search on the suspension/chassis/brakes forum... supposedly the rag joint for our cars is discontinued, but guys have used other rag joints that are spec'd for newer cars without a problem. One of those guys must've posted a part #.

 

Thanks for the heads up. Although the parts store I go to is pretty reliable and they probably have a good replacement in their computer.

 

I saw one at the swap meet I just attended.
It was in a HELP package.
You seek the one made of leather/fabric, not plastic!

 

Not plastic? Got it. BTW TomP I did a search and couldn't find the part number. But when I get around to buying the part in a couple of weeks, I'll let you know how it goes.