Hello,

Make sure the rest of the steering and suspension are in good shape first.

Check the steering rod ends, center link ends, idler arm bushing, steering column rag joint(-1967 1/2) or bushings (1967 1/2-1970), steering box and idler arm frame mounting bolts, ackerman arm bolts(backing plates bolts for front brakes) and crossmember bolts.
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Eric
Hi Performance Automotive Service (formerly OVO or Old Volvos Only)
Torrance, CA 90501

Howdy,

You can eliminate some minor lash with the screwdriver adjustment. The nut around it is a lock nut; loosen that, adjust with the screw. Be careful though -- you can overtighten that adjustment and accelerate wear on the worm gear. You will be able to feel this in the steering wheel as excessive drag -- hard to steer; correct immediately. Be sure to top-off the steering box with gear oil anytime you service it.

You should have about 1 to 2 inches of "play" in the steering wheel. More than that indicates wear but it is not necessarily the gear box that is the problem.

Be sure to check the complete steering system before adjusting the steering box. Play in the pitman arm, tie rods, and idler arm can all add-up. Your box may be just fine; worn tie rods and a sloppy idler arm are more likely than a worn steering box.
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Mr. Shannon DeWolfe -- I've taken to using mister because my name misleads folks on the WWW. I am a 52 year old fat man. ;-)

Most do warn about playing with that adjustment. I did it once - 1/4 turn and was rewarded with much tighter steering. I'd not go beyond that without knowing precisely what is happening in that box.

Over-tightening that adjustment supposedly risks damaging the gear on the steering shaft. I've heard horror stories about that part being wrecked.

But consider that there would be no adjustment there if it did not serve some purpose. I think the risk is adjusting it too much instead of a proper rebuild.

I've heard moly grease in the box will help and some people have mentioned something about shims under the gearing... Can't say much more.

The steering box is one of the few parts of a 122 I've not yet taken apart.

Actually if you discount removing the gears from a differential and rebuilding an M40/41, I think it *is* the only part of the Amazon I've never taken apart (so far).