is there a way to get rid of play in the steering?

[gold84gmc]

in my truck i can turn the steering wheel about 2.5" both ways before it actually starts to turn the wheels....besides replacing stuff is there a way to get rid of the play?

[Donut]

IMO, that doesn't seem excessive (or if it is, I'd better look at mine closer).  Check the basics first.  Ball joints, tie-rod ends etc. IIRC, the steering box can be adjusted, but too tight could trash it.

On my truck, the steering isn't as responsive as my wifes' Trailblazer, I actually prefer it that way.

[VileZambonie]

There should be minimal play. Inspect your front end.

[gold84gmc]

i dont mind it most of the time but sometimes i wish it didnt have any play...how do you adjust the steering box?

[4chevyman]

look on top of the steering box and you will see a nut with a short stud coming out of it.  the stud will have a notch in it on top that a flat tip screwdriver will fit in.  the nut acts as a locknut, so loosen it while holding a screwdriver on the stud and then start tighting it a little at the time.  if the steering box is worn out this won't help much.  my dad replaced his steering box on his freightliner 18 wheeler and says it drives like a brand new one.  he had tried adjusting his, but with over a million miles, it was worn out.  Like the others said get someone to turn the wheel back and forth for you while you inspect the tie rods and etc.

[Captkaos]

That is not the way to adjust the steering play.  That is how you adjust the gear lash.  Playing with this typically ends up destroying the box.  It should be removed from the vehicle and adjusted with an inch/lb wrench.

If you have some play in the steering, find where the slop is.  I would look at your rag joint, and all the joints in the steering assembly.