So I recently took my truck into the shop to get the steering looked at. Lately the steering in my truck has been very sloppy and its finally gotten to the point where I can't stand it anymore. When my mechanic showed me where the problem seemed to be, it was in my steering shaft right where i added the steering extension for the 3 inch body lift.

Anyone have any history with this steering extension wearing out? Replacing the extension will only run me 45 bucks or so. It's been maybe 3 years since I installed the body lift. If not, I'm hoping it's not the shafts because it's a two piece and he told me that they tend to be expensive.

Any help would be appreciated.

 

the steering shaft universal joint was only manufactured to operate at a certain angle

the body lift put the joint on a more severe angle , which wore it out quicker

look at the joint while some one turns the steering wheel , it may just be the u-joint

 

Can you replace just the joint? Or is it all one piece?

 

2002 Ford Ranger Steering Column U-Joint Assembly | FordParts.com

this is probably the correct part number , considering there are 2 u-joints on the shaft if you have tilt steering

 

I have tilt. The link you sent me just opened up the home page, but I think i found the correct part. I think I'm going to order a new steering extension just to be safe, give that a shot, and if that doesn't work I'll order the U-joint assembly. I'd love it if all I had to do is replace a 40 dollar part, but 160 isn't bad either. Thanks for the help!