C4 Tech/Performance L98 Corvette and LT1 Corvette Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine

Slop in steering

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Old Dec 12, 2005 | 10:55 PM
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Default Slop in steering

I have an 85, and I've noticed this in other older cars too, but the steering has "slop" in it... Like, I can turn the wheel 15-degrees or so before it'll actually turn the wheels... I'm sure you guys know what I'm talking about...

How do I fix it? Does it require a new rack and pinion setup? Are there some bolts to check?

Thx!
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Old Dec 13, 2005 | 06:11 PM
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Old Dec 14, 2005 | 12:49 AM
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Tie rods. I'm not certain if the vette steering column uses a rag-joint, but if it does that could be a culprit as well.
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Old Dec 14, 2005 | 05:59 PM
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Whats a rag-joint?

And when you say "Tie rods." You mean replace them? Tighten them?
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Old Dec 14, 2005 | 06:32 PM
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http://rodandcustommagazine.com/tech...35_0503_joint/


Tie rods should be inspected and replaced if faulty. Since you are not familiar with these pieces, I would suggest taking the car to a service shop that specializes in suspension components. If the tie rods fail while in motion you will loose control of the car and possibly crash.

Last edited by JCAIRE2; Dec 14, 2005 at 06:34 PM.
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Old Dec 14, 2005 | 06:52 PM
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Interesting...

And an 85 C4 would have a rag joint then? Where is it located along the steering path?
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Old Dec 14, 2005 | 06:53 PM
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I'm no expert, but I think 15 degrees is a lot of play. The steering column has U-joints that could be worn. Next would be the rack itself. then inner and outer tie rod ends. If you have someone turn the wheel back & forth, you may be able to see what is loose.
I have a little play in mine ('85) as well. I am almost certain that my inner tie rod ends are worn. I plan to replace the entire rack this winter.
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Old Dec 14, 2005 | 07:23 PM
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Originally Posted by Thrak
Interesting...

And an 85 C4 would have a rag joint then? Where is it located along the steering path?



I stole this pic from jburnetts post. You can see the rag joint on the steering shaft.
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Old Dec 14, 2005 | 07:40 PM
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15 degrees does sound excessive. I haven't seen any worn out rag
joints on a C4 unlike a C3. Tie rods should be inspected and also the
strg. rack maybe worn.
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