Stearing/wheel slop-84 Spider

[cygnus x1]

Hey All,
Not sure if this is the correct forum for this question? I have a '84 Spider that has a loose/sloppy feeling stearing wheel. I quessing it has about 1-2 inches of play. I had 86 Spider that the stearing/wheel felt tight. I had the ball joints inspected when I had the tires replaced and they were "good"? considering milage (80K). What else should I be looking for? Bushings? Any easy way to check stearing box adj and oil (refil or drain-replace)? Any other clues?

[ghnl]

The steering box in your Spider is likely adjustable. If you don't want to disconnect the tie rods, etc as described in the shop manual you can try loosening the adjuster's lock nut and move the adjuster in small increments (clockwise when viewed from above will 'tighten' the clearance). Make note of where the starting position of the adjuster screw is then tighten the adjuster by 1/4 turn and lock it in place. Drive the car for a day or two then decide if you want to tighten it another 1/4 turn, etc.

Do not get it so tight it binds or will not self-center when exiting a corner.

[dscottj]

Inspect tie rod ends (TREs) and lower ball joints for torn boots. If you see any, replace 'em all. You'll be amazed at the difference.

[Gubi]

Also the steering idler box (passenger side opposite the steering box). The steering arm rides in a bushing that eventually wears and gets play.