I welcome any repair that can be done in place, but am unsure how to "check the bearings with the box in place". I have (twice) gone through the service manual adjustment process (loosen side nut, back off pressure on bearings, adjust resistance by turning large end cap, etc. etc.). How would I check if bearings are in place without disassembly?
I very much appreciate everyone's input!
Been there done that- although in my case I went thru the adjustment process more than twice. It wasn't until I "rebuilt" my box for the second time I discovered my problem. The lower thrust bearing was cocked in its race. Each time I adjusted everything I removed all the free play and things seemed okay (not good but okay) but it didn't take long before there was excessive free play. I was very disappointed because I replaced everything I could including the somewhat difficult to replace bushings. I did remove the steering box for the second rebuild but upon discovering the problem it was apparent I could have fixed it just removing the large end cap and replacing the destroyed lower bearing and race. Your issue may be something entirely different but your description would point to something with those bearings as a starting point.
