Do some steering wheels have too much play in them?

eCFR — Code of Federal Regulations

 

It certainly can be an issue. If you get a level 1 DOT inspection It will be checked .

 

Write it up on your MVIR and tell the company about it.

 

Get it checked by a qualified mechanic, any play in a steering system=worn or loose parts, could be very detrimental to you or someone else's health.

 

Well, hold on, I drove trucks with 1/4 rotation of play and never killed anyone, however, excessive play is something to look into. Open the hood, there is a shaft going to the steering box. With truck running, grab the shaft and turn it slightly each way observing the rods it's connected to. You may see the worn part right away. There should be no play in the connecting points ( ball joints)

 

There’s an actual amount that’s allowed, maybe 1” , I can’t remember, it refers to steering box only, that’s if all the front end parts are good.Anything can cause your issue, bad tie rod or pitman arm can be dangerous. Best get it checked out ASAP.

 

The steering lash cannot exceed roughly 2 inches and is based off a formula per steering wheel diameter.

49 CFR § 570.7 - Steering systems.

Oddly, many of the pre 2008 or so trucks have pretty sloppy steering even with all the ball joints and steering boxes tight.

First time I got into a modern truck, was a 2012 cascadia. The frigging steering was tighter than in my 2010 impala or the 2008 Silverado before then which was very tight for a truck then. Thusly, began my first true love of modern trucks.

 

I drove some U Model Macks, they were old enough that they didn't have front brakes. Well I swear, some of them must've had a half turn of play on the wheel...and everybody thought that was normal!