Steering Problem Please Help
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 190
Likes: 0
From: Langhorne PA
Steering Problem Please Help
I drove my corvette for the first time yesterday since I have restored the interior. While driving it I realized that the steering wheel has about a 2 inch play side to side before it starts to turn the wheels. What could the problem be? How to I tighten up the steering so that it only moves when the tires move? What parts should I buy and where?
Thank You
amf133
Thank You
amf133
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 120
Likes: 0
From: Forty Fort PA
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 8,812
Likes: 2,029
From: eastern NC
The first and easiest thing to check is the "rag-joint". Raise the hood and then open the driver's side door. Reach in and grab the steering wheel and gently move it back and forth while watching the "rag-joint". If there is any play between the steering shaft and the input shaft to the steering box, replace the "rag-joint".
The second easiest thing to do is check out the "idler arm". You'll need some help, but it's done the same way. Position yourself to be able to watch the idler arm. (Best place is from underneath, so be careful if you do that.) Have your assistant gently turn the steering wheel back and forth while you watch the idler arm. It should move smoothly and precisely. Any unnecessary movement in the idler arm means it should be replaced also.
From there, you're gonna need to follow Jim's instructions as things get a bit more difficult and complicated.
Good luck... GUSTO
The second easiest thing to do is check out the "idler arm". You'll need some help, but it's done the same way. Position yourself to be able to watch the idler arm. (Best place is from underneath, so be careful if you do that.) Have your assistant gently turn the steering wheel back and forth while you watch the idler arm. It should move smoothly and precisely. Any unnecessary movement in the idler arm means it should be replaced also.
From there, you're gonna need to follow Jim's instructions as things get a bit more difficult and complicated.
Good luck... GUSTO
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Supporting Vendor
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 576
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From: Muskegon MI
Be careful adjusting the steering box, you don't want it to bind up. Make sure you mark the starting position before you start turning the screw. All good suggestions above. If you are looking for replacement components let me know.
Andrew
800-442-0335
Andrew
800-442-0335
