Man oh man is there steering wheel play. Probably 2 inches or so worth to both sides before the wheels start to turn. Staying center lane while driving is insanely hard. Tie rods are old but not bad, new idler arm, pitman arm looks good, even adjusted the gear box Just today... When turning the steering wheel it's turning the shaft Even in the inche's worth of play. Just doesn't immediately turn the wheels. And I REALLY like tight steering.

Any suggestions?

97 4 door 4x4 blazer

 

Just an FYI: The steering gear needs to be removed from the vehicle to adjust it correctly. It involves using a torque wrench to rotate the input shaft. There are several websites that explain how to do it. It's not just a matter of adjusting the preload to take the slop out. If it's worn too badly, it needs to be overhauled, or replaced.


As for the play, in addition to the idler arm, pitman arm, and tie rods, you'll need to check for elongated holes in the center link where the idler and pitman arms attach to it, check for worn upper and lower ball joints, upper and lower control arm bushings, and both joints on the steering shaft. Worn wheel bearings can also be a problem. If you've got as much play as you described, it shouldn't be too difficult to locate the problem(s).

 

Any idea on how I can remove the steering shaft from the gear box to check the rag joint?

 

If your steering is the same as my 98 4 door 4x4, you can check the rag joint without pulling the steering shaft off. Right before where the shaft goes into the gear box should be a black plastic shroud clipped around the rag joint, just unclip the shroud and remove it (involves a bit of wiggling to get it free). Once it's off the rag joint, you can have a buddy move the steering wheel while you watch the rag join to see if it's the source of your play.

 

If you have tilt wheel, there is another U joint on the steering shaft. It's right where the shaft goes into the cab. You need to disconnect the rag joint from the gear box to check it. Have someone hold the steering wheel steady while you gently rotate the shaft back and forth. If it's worn, all you'll feel is a very slight knock when you turn the shaft. Expensive part from the dealer, and good ones are scarce at the boneyard. Part #25 in the image below: