Excessive play in the steering

[Whyte3237]

Hi all,

I’ve noticed that when the vehicle is stationary there seems to be excessive moment or play in the steering. I would say roughly an inch left and right in the steering wheel before the wheels actually move off their axis. Also driving at 70/80mph there is a lot of vibration through the steering wheel. I am going to get new tyres and the tracking and balancing done first but I’m also putting it down to either play in the rack or tie rods.

Is there any ideas or suggestion as to what I could do to confirm this. Also are there any companies out there that users recommend for rack refurbishment?

Thanks,

Zack

 

[Exe_Chris]

You can adjust the steering rack - all you need is a centre punch and a socket set (I think it was 13mm but don't quote me on that). Tighten it a bit at a time until the play is gone, then centre punch the locking collar (you can see the mark in the attached photo - the chalk marks the starting position). 1/8th of a turn seems to be a decent ballpark, but you may need more / less.

I did this a few weeks ago and it made an immediately obvious improvement. I was actually overly conservative (didn't want to overdo it) so I'm going to adjust it a bit further next time I have it jacked up. It's very easy to get to and easy to turn. I was going to write it up once I was satisfied (and enough time had passed) as there isn't a thread on it yet, but as you've asked I thought I'd post it. It's rear-facing, near the rear console bush on the driver's side.

 

[Whyte3237]

I’ve adjusted this before but it played havoc with the caster (self centering) maybe I over adjusted it. Will try again. Thank you for reminding me!

 

[Axit]

Just thought I would mention to those interested, My past 2 MOT`s I`ve had advisories for play on the steering rack. Because it is a gradual thing I didn`t really notice only at speed when the steering wheel would be a bit rattly at certain speeds.
I`ve been contemplating a replacement rack, and trying to decide the best garage to take it to.
Anyhow found this post and just attempted it with the tools I had at hand, screwdriver and hammer to loosen locking ring and a 13mm socket.
If the car was on a ramp it would be a 2 minute job, but working on my drive with the cars jack, which I don`t recommend, torch in mouth, I blindly loosened the locking ring, gave the nut a turn then knocked the locking ring tight.

As mentioned above the steering and feel of the front wheels is completely transformed, drives like a new car. My only concern is I may have tightened the nut too much, but the rack was about to be replaced anyhow.

You have to love a free fix, highly recommended.

John.