i test drove a 71 camper today and noticed a lot of free play in the steering, maybe about 20cm.
the van has 40k original miles and has been well maintained.
what could this amount of free play indicate? worn ball joints? worn steering box? or both?

thanks for any help!:thumb

personal guess steering box.....only because i havent had trouble with the other, good as any place to start but

what kiond of price am i looking at for a replacement steering box? and ball joints for that matter?

you might ask matara, he has been fixing up a 71 and recently had to repair a similar issue, I think he replaced some kind of pin

you might ask matara, he has been fixing up a 71 and recently had to repair a similar issue, I think he replaced some kind of pin

you might ask matara, he has been fixing up a 71 and recently had to repair a similar issue, I think he replaced some kind of pin

thanks. have sent u2u

Try adjusting the box before going to the expense of replacing it.....

u cannot feel worn ball joints in the steering its probably the st box or the center pin. crawl under the front and turn the steering shaft at the rubber coupling with your hand and watch to see where the play is. if the st box has more than about 2 threads visible on the adjuster (thats the cheese head screw with the lock nut) it still has some adjustment left. hope this helps.

by the way ive got a good st box 4sale to suit your bus

thanks a lot for you help guys! especially matara
crazyluke: i will keep that in mind, thanks.