Steeroids Binding Issues...
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 558
Likes: 0
From: Dallas TX
Steeroids Binding Issues...
Hey folks, I got my Steeroids kit all installed and buttoned up, but now I'm having some binding at the double U-Joint. I'm sure I could fix it if I had a clue how to adjust that intermediate shaft support bearing. Anybody wanna fill me in? I also can't get a wrench down there to tighten the jamb nuts on it. What did yall use? I had some serious clearance/binding issues with the lower control arms and the inner tie rod end bolts, so I pulled out the old die grinder, and notched the control arms. No problems there now, just the double U-joint. Thanks in advance folks!
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 2,119
Likes: 213
From: Pittsburgh PA
Re: Steeroids Binding Issues... (Jasonty)
I've tried the recommended fixes and still have some binding. The last one was loosening the column where it meets the dash and against the firewall (also from inside the car), and then moving column toward the engine. I held it in place with a block of wood and then retighted the firewall mount.
It's better, but not perfect. I'm not sure why this requires sooooo much adjustment. I think the end of the double u that attaches to the column should be about 2" deeper, and the mounting bracket should put the heim joint in a better position.
I had to break down and buy a 1-1/8" box wrench ($19) to get a good bite on the outer nut and using it in conjunction with an adjustable wrench on the inner nut. This is probably the only use I'll ever have for a 1-1/8" wrench.
[Modified by foundvettelifeisgood, 7:54 PM 5/9/2004]
It's better, but not perfect. I'm not sure why this requires sooooo much adjustment. I think the end of the double u that attaches to the column should be about 2" deeper, and the mounting bracket should put the heim joint in a better position.
I had to break down and buy a 1-1/8" box wrench ($19) to get a good bite on the outer nut and using it in conjunction with an adjustable wrench on the inner nut. This is probably the only use I'll ever have for a 1-1/8" wrench.
[Modified by foundvettelifeisgood, 7:54 PM 5/9/2004]
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 210
Likes: 0
From: eaton rapids mi
Re: Steeroids Binding Issues... (Jasonty)
I had the similar clearance issues you had, i used a file and removed a small amount from the a-arm in order to clear.
I got lucky with my ujoint assembly, i have no binding and didn't have to adjust it.
When i first assembled mine i left the intermediate support loose. The ujoint on the rack is all the way on. The ujoint on the steering column is on far enough so that the bottom of the steering column rod is just visible. (referencing 90 degrees either side of the set screw).
I then tightened the intermediate support after securing both ends. I happened to have an 1-1/8 socket and an adjustable wrench to tighten it down.
Make sure that your set screws on the ujoint that attach to the rack aren't rubbing against the frame, i had to use the smaller ones that are included.
I got lucky with my ujoint assembly, i have no binding and didn't have to adjust it.
When i first assembled mine i left the intermediate support loose. The ujoint on the rack is all the way on. The ujoint on the steering column is on far enough so that the bottom of the steering column rod is just visible. (referencing 90 degrees either side of the set screw).
I then tightened the intermediate support after securing both ends. I happened to have an 1-1/8 socket and an adjustable wrench to tighten it down.
Make sure that your set screws on the ujoint that attach to the rack aren't rubbing against the frame, i had to use the smaller ones that are included.
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 558
Likes: 0
From: Dallas TX
Re: Steeroids Binding Issues... (Vette-4-Life)
Sounds like our problems are similar. The setscrews on the rack were too long, and I had to use the shorter ones for clearance. I'm gonna try adjusting that support bearing this week, hopefully that does the trick. Thanks!!
Drifting
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 1,600
Likes: 0
From: Valencia (near LA) CA
Re: Steeroids Binding Issues... (Jasonty)
Is there anyone who didn't need to use shorter set screws? I wonder why Steeroids still ships with the long ones??
The kit may not be as easy as they say to install, but it is well worth the effort!
70mph steering with 1 finger :D
~Jay
The kit may not be as easy as they say to install, but it is well worth the effort!
70mph steering with 1 finger :D
~Jay
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 558
Likes: 0
From: Dallas TX
Re: Steeroids Binding Issues... (camaroneil)
Finally got mine working with no binding issues too... Although I had an azz of a time with the power steering return hose, it didn't want to fit on the pump. So I ordered a hose for a 92 Grand Am, which is what this rack and pinion was made for. Hoping to get her all done by Wednesday.
Advanced
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 71
Likes: 0
From: Kailua Hawaii
Re: Steeroids Binding Issues... (Jasonty)
sounds sooo familiar... i had all the same problems last month... my headers were very much in the way of the u-joint setup... i ended up calling flaming river to order different joints and more double-d... finally after chopping the bracket from speed direct and re-welding the bracket for the support bearing, i was able to get it just right...
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