Steering Play
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 7,226
Likes: 399
From: Northern CA
Steering Play
Went on a 350 mile trip last weekend. No problems but got me wondering about how much "play" is normal for a C2 with power steering? I rebuilt the power steering two years ago because it was leaking and suspension parts are in good shape. The rag joint looks to be in good shape and I've never tried to adjust the steering gear or even opened it up. If you put a "mark" on the steering wheel... it seems to have about 2 inches in "play" before it engages. Is there anything I might try to "tighten" things up? Thanks.
Drifting
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 1,640
Likes: 0
From: DeBary Fl. Amateur Radio Operator K3CQR
In my thoughts, 2" is way to much. Try loosing the steering gear nut, turn the screw down till you feel the little resistance, back off an 1/8", tighten the nut, while holding the screw and take a ride. If you feel any binding, you need to back off the screw a little more. Bill.
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 7,226
Likes: 399
From: Northern CA
In my thoughts, 2" is way to much. Try loosing the steering gear nut, turn the screw down till you feel the little resistance, back off an 1/8", tighten the nut, while holding the screw and take a ride. If you feel any binding, you need to back off the screw a little more. Bill.
Drifting
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 1,640
Likes: 0
From: DeBary Fl. Amateur Radio Operator K3CQR
It's not about turning the screw down a lot. It may take a 1/2 turn or less before you feel the top. Make sure the wheels are straight when you do this. Re: lube, for now let it alone. You can check that later. Bill.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 5,691
Likes: 12
From: columbus oh
Went on a 350 mile trip last weekend. No problems but got me wondering about how much "play" is normal for a C2 with power steering? I rebuilt the power steering two years ago because it was leaking and suspension parts are in good shape. The rag joint looks to be in good shape and I've never tried to adjust the steering gear or even opened it up. If you put a "mark" on the steering wheel... it seems to have about 2 inches in "play" before it engages. Is there anything I might try to "tighten" things up? Thanks.
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 7,226
Likes: 399
From: Northern CA
I'll give it a go... let you know. Thanks.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 5,214
Likes: 447
From: NJ Hockey beer league
One other thing, confirm your steering box is on the center high point before making any adjustments to the lash screw. You can't assume this just because the wheels are pointing straight ahead. You can check the box by turning the steering wheel left to right (about 3 3/4 turns or so stop to stop) and feeling the high point in the middle. Once you have that, if your steering wheel is straight Y looking, go for it. Two inches of play is way too much, adjustment will help some, but is not a solution for worn gears. Also, check the recent threads related to this. 
Pilot Dan
Pilot Dan
Last edited by Pilot Dan; Apr 29, 2010 at 12:40 AM.
