70 GMC steering questions
 

Hi guys.
Dont usually post but have questions about my kids 70 1/2 ton.
Its a dailly driver and the steering makes me crazy. It wont return to centre. The box and drag link ends have been replaced. New tires, wheel bearings etc. Had dlignment done. All looks good.
We replaced the box to remove the slop. The new box is nice and tight.Almost too tight. Im beginning to wonder if it wasnt set correctly after the rebuuld.
Also, should the drag link be parallel to the ground or is a slight angle ok? The suspension seems to be a bit higher than stock. 4 leaves on the front. Im going from memory from when I had a 72 GMC and seem to remember the front having 2 or 3 leaves and a slight upward or negative arch. His have a bit of positive arch.
Sorry for the long post but Im starting to pull out what little hair I habe ha ha.
Any suggestions on what else to check?
Thanks
Jeff

Re: 70 GMC steering questions
 

Drag link should be fairly level at ride height to get full steering left to right. Did you get a print out of alignment specs? Caster should be in the 4 to 8 degree range. Can be adjusted with wedge shims under the spring. Most alignment shops are lazy and only bother with toe on the straight axle trucks.

Re: 70 GMC steering questions
 

Thanks Richard,
That was kinda my thought as well that perhaps not enough caster. Ill have to ask him for the alignment sheet.
The drag link has about a 1 inch difference in height from pitman arm to steering arm on the axle.
Probably going to do all the springs since a few leaves are worn and it rides like a lumber wagon.
Ill keep you posted.
Thanks
Jeff

Re: 70 GMC steering questions
 

Too tight can prevent the steering from returning to center. I'd loosen it just a tad and see what happens. A little bit goes a long way on that adjuster so be careful. Try it at your own risk.