K10 Steering box output shaft moving in and out

[Camar068]

Anyone ever seen the output shaft move in and out of the box? Normal? I've got a popping sound when turning the wheel which we've concluded to the box moving on the frame a bit. Frame has had the frame/crack repair to it. But, the output shaft moving in/out 1/8th-1/4" inch grabbed our eyes.

The box is an autozone rebuild with lifetime, replaced 3 times in 10 years. All to eliminate death wobble, slop, and popping noise. All front end components are good and lubed.

 

[Camar068]

box will be tightened shortly. How much torque can u put on the "bolts/tabs" on the box before they break? I'd like to crank the hell outta them but don't want to break the tabs off.

 

[Camar068]

oh yeh.....no slop in the wheel currently. Just the loud pop I get when moving from the parked position. I've also sprayed white paint on the radiator support rivets and bumper bolts to look for movement.

Sorry, a little history I didn't add.

 

[Chevy 88]

Can the sound be repeated while the vehicle is not in motion? If so, I would make the noise repeatedly while someone inspects the front end, preferably with a mechanics stethoscope or a long screwdriver. If the steering box is making popping noises after its properly adjusted, and properly secured to the frame, then it must be defective.