Steering Wanders

If a wandering condition is found, possible sources include the following:

• Unevenly loaded or overloaded vehicle. If this condition is found, notify vehicle owner of improper vehicle loading.
• Loose or damaged steering gear mounting bolts. If this condition is found, tighten steering gear bolts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
• Loose lower steering column U-joint bolts. See STEERING COLUMNS -- EXCURSION, E350, F250/350/450/550 SUPER DUTY & STRIPPED CHASSIS .
• Loose, worn or damaged lower steering column shaft U-joints. See STEERING COLUMNS -- EXCURSION, E350, F250/350/450/550 SUPER DUTY & STRIPPED CHASSIS .
• Wheel alignment. See SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES -- TRUCKS .
• Loose, worn or binding steering linkage(s) or tie rod end(s). See STEERING LINKAGE TEST  under DIAGNOSIS & TESTING.
• Improper steering gear preload/meshload. See MESHLOAD ADJUSTMENT  under ADJUSTMENTS & INSPECTION.
• Suspension components. See FRONT -- 4WD LEAF SPRING or FRONT -- 2WD EXCURSION, F250 & F350 SUPER DUTY under SUSPENSION.