Removing free play at steering and A/C question

[coupe1942]

I don't happen to have any manuals for my 1990 HB Nissan truck, so, unless I go to the local library, I am sort of stuck for any immediate solutions.

I have a bit more free play at my steering than what I feel is necessary. I'd like to check the truck out to see if it is able to be tightened up a bit. I am limited on tools these days, so just how difficult is it to adjust the steering and remove the free play at the steering wheel? Where to begin in doing so? This is an old beater truck and can probably use a good cleaning of all under surfaces. No telling when it last had a grease job or tune up. All can likely help.

Question regarding the A/C to this vehicle. What is the freon type used. I tried to find this out in the manual when I had access to it, but did not see it. I have not looked under the hood to see if it is listed there or not. The A/C works, but needs to be topped off. A local mechanic estimated it would take one or two cans of freon to top it off. Any thoughts as to the cost of such?

I really need to invest in a manual, but counting pennies at present, so that is on the wish list. :-)

Thanks,
Huey

[Rev_D21]

Personally I wouldn't go messing with adjustments at the steering box, that is a precise adjustment that must be made with the box off the truck. I found most of my steering slop at the idler arm. I replaced the idler bushings with bronze from Bandit4x4 and that was the finishing touch needed for much better steering. I had replaced everything on the front of the truck and still had wander. I was told it was the box but I didn't believe it. Replaced the idler bushings and the steering is great. Remember it's a truck and not a car. Also remember these trucks don't have rack and pinion steering so they will only handle so well.


In 1990 I am 99% sure that truck uses R12. It must be converted to R134a if you care that much as R12 is priced through the roof. Nissan had all their vehicles changed over to R134a by 1996. Virgin R12 can no longer be afforded by the average Joe. I'd look into converting the truck to R134a if it hasn't been done already.

[RT22]

Rev is right my 90 was r 12, look on the ac lines if it has threaded valves it is still r 12 if it has been converted it will have non threaded connectors, looks more like the connectors on a air hose, it is a slip fitting. That tells you if it is r 12 or 134.

[coupe1942]

Thanks for the info. I'll have to look at it and see. Never played about with the A/C stuff and always just left it to the mechanic in the past. too hot down here to let it slide, so it is on my wish list to get serviced as soon as possible.

Believe me, I know the difference between cars and trucks when it comes to slop and play in the steering. Having driven a Model A Ford as my main vehicle for many years, I am used to free play and manhandling the steering. :-)