I've replaced my PS Control Valve,  the PS Pump and all the lines. Steering is getting more responsive. But it's still not where I want it.

How do I know when it's time to rebuild/replace my Steering box?

 Jim

On most cars, there is and adjustment on the steering box to compensate for responses. If you have to adjust this too much, you would more than likely have to rebuild the steering box. There is usually a nut with a hex bolt through it. Loosen the nut and adjust the hex bolt a little tighter for more response then tighten the nut. I wouldn't go past 1/4 turn before checking it on the road. When you do this, the return on the sterring might be a little less than normal so be careful as to not take a turn too fast on the test drive.

 

[QUOTE=75BrownC3]

On most cars, there is and adjustment on the steering box to compensate for responses. If you have to adjust this too much, you would more than likely have to rebuild the steering box. There is usually a nut with a hex bolt through it. Loosen the nut and adjust the hex bolt a little tighter for more response then tighten the nut. I wouldn't go past 1/4 turn before checking it on the road. When you do this, the return on the sterring might be a little less than normal so be careful as to not take a turn too fast on the test drive. [/QUOTE]

Just a note to make sure your steering wheel is centered when you make the adjustment to remove play in the steering box. Otherwise you can end up with a lot of binding. It is normal to have more play in the wheel when it is turned most of the way right or left, so trying to remove that would make it too tight when straight, and like noted by 73BrownC3, make natural return of the wheel stiff.

 

With the engine off and the steering column unlocked, reach under the hood and grab the steering shaft going into the steering box from the steering wheel.  With light grip using just you index finger and thumb, gently turn the shaft back and forth.  Don't force or jamb anything.  When there is a very slight movement without effort, the steering box is adjusted okay.  Watch the steering wheel.  It will move about 1/4 to 1/2 inch on the outer edge of the rim.

If it's too loose the car will wander and be less responsive.  If it's too tight it won't return properly, and be numb or stiff in the center position.  If it's too tight it will cause increased wear in the box.

How do I know if it's too tight?  I mean is there a "feel" to it?

It does tend to wander a bit...

 

JimG38854.7474884259

There is a very distinct feel.  It will turn at the shaft VERY easily in a small area across center.  When it tightens up at all, there is no free play.  You are feeling for the amount of free play.  It does take a carefull touch to feel this, but with care, it's fairly easy.  Don't turn the steering shaft too fast or it will be difficult to feel.