I have just replaced the steer box on my buggy.
The brand new box still seems to have way too much freeplay (I can move the steering wheel a good 2 inches before the wheels move.)
All the balljoints, steering coupling etc are all brand new.
Watching it closely, the lost movemant is definetly in the box.
Theres a worm screw and lock nut on the top- I screwed the worm screw down fairly tight then locked the nut up. This only made a tiny difference in free play but made the steering tighter.
What am I missing? Is there a set torque for these?

what oil are you using in the box i use grease stoped a lot of that looseness

Using 90 weight gear oil. Tried adjusting it again. .marginally better, but still scary in trafic.
To adjust it I've turn the wheel to the left, loosened the lock nut off, tightened the worm screw down then locked up the locknut. I still have to moove the steering wheel 2 inches before the box turns. Column is as tight as i'm game to go.

Hi

You can only adjust the steering box in the straight ahead position, anywhere else is no good, this because the play is introduced in the steering when its not centred. To ensure you have the straight ahead position disconnect the pitman arm, count the turns lock to lock then 1/2 it, that is the centre.

Now put the piman arm back on, with the centre position that yourve found wheels should be pointing staright ahead, if not keep the steering box in its centre psotion and then adjust the tie rods until the wheels are poiinting straight ahead.

Adjusting the nut on top of the steering box can now be done. Grab hold of the pitman with your hand and try to force shaft that the pitman arm is attched on the steering box up and down, you want to have it so that you can barely feel any play.

Steve

cool. I'll give it another go, reallty cant drive it like it is.