Power Steering Question
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 1,218
Likes: 2
From: Plainfield IL
Power Steering Question
I replaced the power steering components on my 1981. This included the pump, cylinder, control valve and hoses. Next, I centered the control valve as explained in my shop manual. I've eliminated the leaky components, but now the steering wanders when traveling at highway speeds. I had the steering and rear end aligned, but this didn't help. Any ideas how I can correct the problem? Thanks.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 1999
Posts: 2,897
Likes: 0
From: Moon Township PA
Re: Power Steering Question (Biker)
Re-do the control valve balancing procedure. I had to do mine twice before it was good. I can read too, so I know I did the procedure correctly.
Gary
Gary
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 6,001
Likes: 112
From: Saginaw Michigan
Re: Power Steering Question (Packy76)
Another quick check. Park your car so that it can be driven straight ahead a short distance without turning. Now, rotate your steering wheel lock to lock. Carefully count the number of turns and partial turns (X). Divide the number of turns in half (X/2). Go from full lock back X/2 turns. Your gear is now right on center. Drive your car forward. Does it go straight?
The gears inside your steering gear are designed so that when your steering gear is on center, there is a high spot machined into the gear set. Off center there is designed in clearance between the gears. With the gear right on center, you can now adjust the gear mesh by carefully tightening down on the screw that sticks out of the aluminum side cover. You just want to delash the gear teeth right on center.
NEVER make this adjustment with the gear off center. You can cause internal damage to the gear by making the side cover adjustment or eliminating the lash off center.
The gears inside your steering gear are designed so that when your steering gear is on center, there is a high spot machined into the gear set. Off center there is designed in clearance between the gears. With the gear right on center, you can now adjust the gear mesh by carefully tightening down on the screw that sticks out of the aluminum side cover. You just want to delash the gear teeth right on center.
NEVER make this adjustment with the gear off center. You can cause internal damage to the gear by making the side cover adjustment or eliminating the lash off center.
