Steering Play

[Coach1]

I have done a lot of searching and reading, but am not sure the answers I got apply to my 2003 ext cab 4X4 dually. I had a leaking Steering Gear Box. The dealer changed the box instead of fixing the leak. Now I have a lot of play in the steering. It is hard to keep it between the lines of the road. Is there an adjustment on the gear box for this problem?

[Mark Heiken]

Dealer replaced my box to cure steering play. The new box was worse. It can be adjusted on top of box. Try to get dmaxallitech to explain how to do it. My dealers tech said it was set from the factory and he didn't want to adjust it.

I'm not 100% certain that this applies to your rig, but I'll bet it does.

[RanaExcavating1]

There is a nut with a alan head stud in it on the top of the box. Hold the alan key in place and loosen the nylon lock nut. Now turn the allan wrench as if you were tightening it 1/4 turn. Hold the wrench in that position and tighten the lock nut and road test. If you tighten it to much your steering wheel will most likely not return to center. Which will also wear your box out sooner. Thats why the 1/4 turn at a time.

Good luck

[Coach1]

The Dealer was going to adjust it, however now they are going to replace it due to there being too much play to adjust. This will make number three gear box. Sure hope the next one is correct. Thanks for the replies.

[dmaxalliTech]

Coach,,, how far are you from GR :confused:
I thought we talked about that before!! LOL :D

[Paintdude]

Part number 26099860 is what they need to fix any of the steering boxes that have CB or HD code on them. It fixed mine. Good Luck.

[Coach1]

Yes, dmaxallitech, we did talk, but that was about the rear brake rotors. I am about 100 miles from GR.

[Mark Heiken]

Coach1, if your that close to a tech that has the knowledge and willingness to fix the problem right,like Eric, don't talk about it. TAKE THE RIG TO HIM!!!! End your frustrations and those of your local techs, who don't want to deal with your problems.

[Cliffee]

I recently ran into the exact problem. My gearbox was leaking and after it was replaced I had excessive play. The dealer replaced the gearbox a second time and still the exact same problem. They tried adjusting the mesh screw and everything possible. After having the head service manager go on a test drive with my truck and a brand new 03 he agreed to take the gearbox out of the new 03 and put it in mine. Problem was solved. It turns out that the replacement parts off the shelf are not the same as the factory parts. My service Manager was in contact with GM and they are aware of this problem!!!