How many times should my steering wheel rotate before it hits the stop?

Hello, Start with the steering wheel and the tires centered (straight) and turn the wheel to full stop. Count it out, and make sure it goes the same amount in the other direction (from center again). I would almost bet on adjustment needed at the steering gear on your pick-up. Have your wife turn the wheel as far as there is play, but not so far that she feels resistance, and watch the steering column. If the steering column turns the same amount as the steering wheel, look at the pitman arm. If the pitman arm is not moving, but the steering column is, adjust the steering gearbox. Is this a saginaw gearbox like chevrolet uses? I havn't worked on an older F-150 in a few years, but there is adjustment proceedures that must be strictly followed to prevent premature failure.

Key on - engine off .. Rock steering wheel .. How much 'free travel' is felt? .. Can also compare steering wheel lash to tire movement by standing outside vehicle reaching inside turning steering wheel and observing drivers side tire........ Assuming standard size/diameter steering wheel (?) Cannot determine steering wheel lash by comparison to another vehicle based on the number of turns from center to lock OR from lock to lock due to different steering sector gear ratios! .. Do NOT attempt steering box adjustment!! .. Leave that to a trained professional.