I have a 1997 Ford Ranger XLT supercab, 2.3L 4X2. I was pulling out of my parking lot at work, and 2 of the 3 bolts that hold the steering column to the steering gear box broke, causing loss of steering to the right. The steering was very loose, and I could eventually turn to the right, when the gear box lodged against the frame. I've noticed 3 other incidents in searching this website. I think this is an age issue with Ranger. Bolts shouldn't just break in two. I didn't take this to a dealership, but my friend is a mechanic and did the work for me. However, I'm concerned about safety, because if this happens on a highway, serious fatalities can occur.

- Portage, MI, USA

Bolts which hold the steering sector to the frame all broke or snapped. I was lucky that I was sitting in a parking lot and started to turned the steering wheel, there was a snap and I was unable to turn the wheels of the truck a 97 Ford Ranger. I sent an email to for on January 28, 2003 about this item and they have not responded, the tracking id is kmm2029449C0km case id 688902. I am normally out on the highway traveling at over 65 mph on weekend and had the bolts snapped while moving at this speed I would probably be dead. Is there any records of this problem reported by anyone that is still alive? thanks for you help. Just wanted T O inform you of this happening. I have never heard of this happening on a vehicle. As far as I can determine this vehicle has not been in an accident. Most of the 76,000 miles has been driven on the highways. Thanks again.

- Ottumwa , IA, USA

Consumer states gear and sector shaft are excessively worn, the steering wheel had excessive play when turning in either direction, the wheels did not turn as the steering wheel is turned, instead when the play was out of the steering wheel the front wheels would then turn.

- Santa Clara, CA, USA