GMT 800 & Older GM General Discussion 2006 & Older Trucks | General Discussion

How to straighten the steering wheel?

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Old Nov 19, 2012 | 01:27 AM
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Default How to straighten the steering wheel?

My steering wheel used to be straight when I got the truck 5 years ago. Now the steering wheels needs to be turned about 15 degrees to the left in order to go straight. Is this indicative of a problem? Or how can I adjust it to be centered again? Steering seems fine otherwise, except for a minor leak at the pump. Thanks!
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Old Nov 19, 2012 | 03:37 AM
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This could just be an alignment problem. Have you hit any curbs, potholes, etc.? Take it to a shop that will center the wheel and lock it in place then dhave them check the alignment.
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Old Nov 19, 2012 | 09:56 AM
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It was aligned earlier this year without issue. Haven't done any suspension mods since. Haven't hit anything.
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Old Nov 19, 2012 | 10:27 AM
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Did you notice it before or after the alignment?

I just put my new tires on, new inner/outter tierods and alingment. Mine is turned left a good bit and pulls to the right

Gotta find time to take it back by there.
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Old Nov 19, 2012 | 10:49 AM
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As long as you can let it go and it doesn't pull one way or the other, it's not THAT big of a deal. I wouldn't worry about it.
Be certain there is no cross wind or slope to the road surface when to check to see if it pulls.

But if you MUST straighten it, sounds like the tie rods need to be taken in a turn and a half on the right, and pushed out a turn and a half on the left. Whatever you do, do it equal and opposite.
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Old Nov 19, 2012 | 11:54 AM
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Originally Posted by matemike
As long as you can let it go and it doesn't pull one way or the other, it's not THAT big of a deal. I wouldn't worry about it.
Be certain there is no cross wind or slope to the road surface when to check to see if it pulls.

But if you MUST straighten it, sounds like the tie rods need to be taken in a turn and a half on the right, and pushed out a turn and a half on the left. Whatever you do, do it equal and opposite.
It's strictly an appearance thing, it steers perfectly otherwise. I'll give that a shot. Thanks!
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Old Nov 19, 2012 | 03:51 PM
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if it steers fine otherwise, i believe it just needs a toe adjustment.
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Old Nov 20, 2012 | 07:41 PM
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Toe in needs to be adjusted correctly
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