Steering issue

[454Keith]

Hey, guys...
We just picked up this truck, did a BUNCH of stuff to it...
'89 Big-block one-ton two wheel drive with 80,000 original miles... The thing has no on-center feel in the steering wheel, and is hard to keep centered... I have a '98 4x4 3/4 ton, can steer it with your pinky... Went through the entire front end and found a worn upper ball joint, worn pitman arm, and a worn idler arm... Replaced all that, and, with pitman arm disco's, front end moves feely... Bad pump? Someone told me there's a bypass valve in the pump that could be the culprit... Opinions?

Thanks!

 

[delta_p]

If you look through the detailed service manual for saginaw 800, it has a trouble shoot for steering issues and it'll tell you every detail how the pump and steering box works.

https://www.midweststeering.com/service-information/

 

[sewlow]

The thing has no on-center feel in the steering wheel, and is hard to keep centered...

Thanks!

Have the castor knock-outs been punched?
They don't come punched from the factory. Who knows why.
Followed by an alignment? Not just a 'set-the-toe-&-let-her-go' job, but a proper alignment.
These trucks like lots of castor. As much as possible.
Gives a bit heavier feel to the steering, which helps to compensate for the over-boosted pump, along causing the truck to want to come back to center.
Wider/heavier tire & wheel combos require slightly more toe than factory spec, too. More drag.

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