[marvmarcy]

Hi, Newcomer here with questions. I just bought a base 1991 W250 4x4, 5.2, AT with 127xxx miles on odometer. There is end play in the steering column so much that the steering wheel can be pulled out about 1/2" and there is lateral slop in the column. Can the column be pulled apart to fix this or should I just get a new column? How much should I expect to pay for a new or used column?

 

[KevenP]

Welcome!
Have someone pull the steering wheel up while you inspect the column and shaft in the engine bay. Might be a bad 'rag' joint?

Borgeson sells a nice replacement:

http://www.borgeson.com/xcart/catalog/Dodge_Ram_Truck_Steering_Shafts-orderby_0-p-1-c-109.html

 

[marvmarcy]

Keven, Already pulled the steering wheel and checked joint play - its fine, no movement up or down. The problem seems to be inside the upper column. Thanks for the lead on a replacement, but they don't seem to have anything to replace the upper shaft or whole column.

 

[KevenP]

Pull the horn and see if the large nut is loose?

 

[marvmarcy]

Keven, I already pulled the steering wheel. The nut was tight. The upper shaft moves up about 1/2" when pulled. I also removed the snap ring and upper shaft bushing that is just below the steering wheel, and there is lots of vertical and lateral play in the upper shaft. I was hoping to find out if the upper shaft can be removed (either up or down through the column) and new bearings/bushings/snaprings can be installed to remove the excessive play. If that isn't practical, I must replace the upper steering column assembly and could use help with a good source. All I'm finding is lower steering parts (rag joint on down).

 

[KevenP]

Dang, sorry, no help now.
I just got rid of a '90 non tilt column.
I think I can track it down if you need it?

 

[Gen1dak]

There's a spring that rides beneath the bearing housing. So, it's right below the bearing /snap ring you mentioned. This is a telescoping assembly (in that it is designed to collapse on impact. Don't know if that might play into it. There's also a steering shaft repair kit that cleans up slop in addition to the coupler. Rock Auto has it. Worth a shot.

 

[marvmarcy]

Thanks to both of you reponders. I may just replace the column instead of trying to fix it. Keven, I don't know if a 1990 column is the same as a 1991, but if it will work with no modifications, I would buy it from you if you can retrieve it. Let me know what you want for it.

 

[marvmarcy]

I got a used olumn and replaced the old one. Had to change ignition switch to keep original key and changed turn signal/wiper switch because one on new column was defective. All is fine now. Thread closed.

 

[KevenP]

Sorry, I didn't see your request sooner.
Glad all is well now!!!!!!