steering ujoints

[cuz_im_CR]

so my steering ujoints have kinda blown out over the years. my steering has lots of play and the steering u joints seem to be the reason. i have been searching for replacement parts but kragen doesnt list anything and autozone doesnt stock any in store or able to ship.

what is everyone doing to resolve this issue? its not the end of the world that it has play but id sure love to fix it because im sure it would be a much more enjoyable ride.

ive seen JBG carries a complete replacement shaft made by borgeson but thats 300$. is that my only option?

thanks guys for the input,
chris

[baja-chris]

I found the play in mine was due to the column telescoping feature where the square tubing slips inside a larger square. This is to allow the steering column to collapse in a wreck when the front of the truck crumples up so it does not push the steering wheel through your chest. I put some spot welds on mine to remove that play and have to cut them out to remove the column. My truck is fully caged so the front would not crumple in a wreck. In an uncaged truck I'd look for a replacement column with less play. My rag joints are holding up fine. Make sure your play is not in the steering box, if so it's rebuild time.

[Seattle FSB]

Chris makes a great point regarding his caged race truck, but I must underscore the importance of having a telescoping shaft in a daily driver to keep the steering wheel out of your chest during a head-on collision.

I upgraded to the Borgeson Shaft with needle bearing u-joints (eliminating the rag joint), along with a Red Head Precision Steering Box, to find a great success in steering improvement. All that is left is basic tie rod ends, ball joints, alignment and wheel balancing.