Power Steering Wormshaft Movement

[73_Cuda_4_Me]

 

Does anyone know if the wormshaft on a power steering box is supposed to move in and out when turning steering wheel? This is on my 73 Cuda...

I have about 1/4" to 3/8" movement of wormshaft with engine off and turning steering wheel back and forth... it's about 25-30 degrees of steering wheel turn before I can feel resistance side to side without turning steering arm.

I've gone through FSM, but nothing indicates any tolerance or spec for it... I know the valve arm has to move in either direction to get pressure assist, but am wondering if excessive play has been the cause of the 'loosey-goosey' feel going straight down the road that I've had since I got the car...

This wormshaft movement is taken up by the steering coupler...

Thanks in advance for any info!!!

[moparstyle]

Have exactly what you are describing on my GC. My Challenger has less play in the wormshaft and goes fine down the road.
Both cars have "rebuilt" steering boxes from Lares....

I believe you have excessive play and need to have your steering box professionally rebuilt.