Hey everyone, I have got a 2015 F250 Lariat with 113k miles, and I’m noticing quite a bit of play in the steering wheel. There’s some slack where I can slightly turn it in either direction before it engages. Additionally, I have to hold the wheel about 45 degrees off-center to drive straight. I recently had an alignment done, so I know that’s not the issue. Given how much play there is, I’m wondering if the steering box might be shot. For those of you with similar trucks, at what mileage have you had to replace the steering box?
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I initially thought the issue with my '13 F350 was the steering box, since my previous trucks a '01 F250 and an '03 Ram 2500 both needed new steering boxes after front-end rebuilds. However, I rebuilt the front end at 230,000 miles, and everything was still tight. The steering boxes on '11 and newer models are pretty robust, and from what I’ve read, they usually don’t need replacing unless you have been driving on a worn front end with large tires for an extended period.
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The original steering box is still in good working order on my 2001 F250.
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The identical problem is occurring for me with my 2000 F250 7.3 with 197000. I am going to investigate this.
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In my opinion, a blue top is preferable to a red head ripping box.
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If everything is in good condition, consider upgrading to a Redhead gearbox you will thank me later.
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If everything is in good condition, consider upgrading to a Redhead gearbox you will thank me later.
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If it is the steering box, then yes, I will. There isn’t anything else that comes to mind.
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I just replaced mine. The dead spot increased over time, causing it to wander and eventually jerk the wheel on its own. The Redhead gearbox has transformed it into a whole new truck.
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In my old 1993 F350, upgrading to a Redhead gearbox made a significant difference. I also found that the shearing shaft had some slack, so I replaced it with a Borgeson Shaft. It wasn’t inexpensive, but combined, they tightened up the steering in that truck, eliminating any noticeable play. It felt better than new.