sterring gear box adjustment

[exodus138]

i picked up a 79 blazerer 4x4 last weekend the only problem i have is the adjustment in the gear box according to haynes manual i need to lift the truck and set it on jackstands by the frame pull off the pitman arm , turn the nut on gear box 1/4 turn and use the allen screw to adjust it... all pretty easy here's my question though the blazer has a 8 inch lift so i can get under to remove the pitman arm so do i still have to set the blazer on jackstands?

[Lt.Del]

i think the point is to take the weight off the suspension and front wheels for adjustment. The pitman arm is a principal part of steering.

[exodus138]

great thank you. now i have to rent a jack and buy some jackstands  i should have them anyway i guess.

[VileZambonie]

You are doing it wrong. If you want to adjust the high point first put a witness mark across the jame nut, the set screw and the top cover. Hold the allen set screw from turning and loosen the jam nut (typically 5/8"). Now with the wheels pointed straight ahead have an assistant rock the steering wheel back and fourth just to feel the play in the steering. Observe the steering shaft movement vs the pitman arm. Tighten the set screw slowly until you see minimal lash. Don't overtighten it. Once you have it set hold the set screw from turning and tighten the jam nut.

[joesgarage71]

You are doing it wrong. If you want to adjust the high point first put a witness mark across the jame nut, the set screw and the top cover. Hold the allen set screw from turning and loosen the jam nut (typically 5/8"). Now with the wheels pointed straight ahead have an assistant rock the steering wheel back and fourth just to feel the play in the steering. Observe the steering shaft movement vs the pitman arm. Tighten the set screw slowly until you see minimal lash. Don't overtighten it. Once you have it set hold the set screw from turning and tighten the jam nut.

Yea what he said!
  Really, you should be looking for a spare box cause your lift and big tires are putting a hurting on a old box.

[DnStClr]

And get the best jack stands you can afford. You'll never regret it.