Ford Repair: 1990 Ford Ranger Steering, goodyear wranglers, rubber bushings

Question
I am the original owner of a 1990 Ford Ranger: 4 wheel drive, 4 liter engine, air conditioning and autotransmission.

The truck has 130,000 miles most of which is street/freeway.

I recently put on new (same model tire that came with the truck)Goodyear Wranglers which significantly improved the ride.  However I noticed more free play in the steering wheel when driving on smooth straight roads.

I discussed this free play with the ford dealer and they said it was within tolerance.

I would think the rubber bushings could be replaced and wonder if there is a steering gear rebuild kit.

I would appreciate your thoughts

Thanks

Walt Smith
Santa Ana, CA

Answer
Hi Walt,
Get A second opinion. Something is loose. If the front end is tight have them check the steering gear and the rag joint in the steering shaft.
Steering gears are very difficult to rebuild and take special tools. The best thing to do is get a reman steering box.
Different tires will give you a different feel on the road. Give them a couple of months to get used to them.

Jeff
AllExperts