Free Play In Steering Wheel?
09-15-2010, 01:21 AM
#21
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Mine does the same thing, has lots of play left to right, I put a newer LS rack in it and tightened the crap out of all the bolts but the problem still continues. Next step is to get rid of the old *** rag joint.
09-15-2010, 01:22 AM
#22
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See pic for tie rod end example:
It's the yellow cup that covers the tie rod.. Check the nut on the tie rod for loose play.. Wiggle everything, find ANYTHING loose.
As you can see in this pic, there are many seals in a steering rack which can wear causing steering play. I'm willing to bet, a worn out steering rack..
Steering looseness and wander, when accompanied by a feathered toe wear pattern on the front tires, usually indicates worn inner sockets and/or outer tie rod ends that need replacing
Last edited by HoLLo; 09-15-2010 at 01:34 AM.
09-15-2010, 02:55 PM
#24
I've got the same problem on my car. The steering wheel is very sloppy and easily shifts from side to side with play while driving. I can wiggle the steering wheel a good 1/2 inch each way while on the freeway with no change in direction... it's just extra play...
09-18-2010, 12:35 PM
#25
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Definitely get the ragjoint eliminator. It helped a ton on my old 97!!
Like I said the ragjoint is a 93-97 only thing. I couldn't imagine in any way tires causing free play in the steering. I would check in order: tighten all bolts on the steering shaft and rack, then check for any loose play in tie rod ends. If everything seems tight, you just simply have a worn out steering rack.
See pic for tie rod end example:
It's the yellow cup that covers the tie rod.. Check the nut on the tie rod for loose play.. Wiggle everything, find ANYTHING loose.
As you can see in this pic, there are many seals in a steering rack which can wear causing steering play. I'm willing to bet, a worn out steering rack..
Like I said the ragjoint is a 93-97 only thing. I couldn't imagine in any way tires causing free play in the steering. I would check in order: tighten all bolts on the steering shaft and rack, then check for any loose play in tie rod ends. If everything seems tight, you just simply have a worn out steering rack.
See pic for tie rod end example:
It's the yellow cup that covers the tie rod.. Check the nut on the tie rod for loose play.. Wiggle everything, find ANYTHING loose.
As you can see in this pic, there are many seals in a steering rack which can wear causing steering play. I'm willing to bet, a worn out steering rack..
Thank you for taking the time dude. I'm going to check this asap. As I said, the rack was replaced about 50k ago w/a brand new unit so I'll be a little pissed if the whole thing is shot so soon. But I guess it's got to be an option.
Thanks man.
