Clicking steering wheel

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Feb 14, 2010 | 06:40 PM

LannyL81

Thread Starter

Melting Slicks

Joined: Nov 2005

Posts: 3,323

Likes: 142

From: Green Valley Arizona

Clicking steering wheel

Okay, so what is it that makes the clicking noise in the steering column these cars when stopped or barely moving? Both the '95 and '96 do it. At one time I read there was a fix for this from GM, but unable to find it now.

Thanks

Feb 14, 2010 | 07:26 PM

94vettelover2

Burning Brakes

Joined: Oct 2009

Posts: 773

Likes: 2

From: Minneapolis MN

Is your steering column loose?If its tight you may have a worn out steering coupler/u-joint.Make sure noise is not coming from suspension first.Also check steering components(tie rods etc).Post results

Feb 16, 2010 | 06:52 PM

LannyL81

Thread Starter

Melting Slicks

Joined: Nov 2005

Posts: 3,323

Likes: 142

From: Green Valley Arizona

Both steering columns have wear in the tilt post...but the "clicking" noise is coming from inside the column. It seems to be on the top of the column just about when the dash meets the column...a bit towards the wheel.

Only happens when the car is stopped or barely moving and the steering wheel is moved +/- 5 degrees from center.

All tie rod ends are good. Replaced the steering rack last summer. The
"click" was there before and is there after.

Any more thoughts????

Feb 16, 2010 | 08:09 PM

mike100

Safety Car

Joined: Aug 2008

Posts: 4,344

Likes: 48

From: San Marcos CA

I think it is some kind of wear in the ball socket thing. maybe if it wasn't tilted at all it would be less, but I have to drive with my wheel up a notch or two because of my forward position.

Feb 16, 2010 | 10:52 PM

LT1CORVETTE

Racer

Joined: May 2003

Posts: 466

Likes: 1

From: Laguna Niguel California

Check the intermediate shaft. Mine has the same clicking noise you are describing. I traced it down to the top u joint, just have not had a chance to explore how to fix it.

Feb 17, 2010 | 01:13 AM

Frizlefrak

Race Director

Joined: Dec 2000

Posts: 17,551

Likes: 26

From: El Paso Texas

Quote:

Originally Posted by LT1CORVETTE

Check the intermediate shaft. Mine has the same clicking noise you are describing. I traced it down to the top u joint, just have not had a chance to explore how to fix it.

Same issue I had on my 84. The intermediate shaft has a rubber center that is part of its "energy absorbing" feature. Over time, this deteriorates and leaves the space open, which creates a "click" feeling in the column.

To the best of my knowledge, the shaft is unavailable new or rebuilt. You can buy one used, but will eventually face the same problem again. Some of us have come up with unique ways to repair it....albeit defeating the energy absorbing component of the setup. In my case, I removed the intermediate shaft and took it to a machine shop, where they pressed in a hardened steel pin through the two halves....in effect creating a solid shaft. Cost $25, problem solved. Others have welded it together.

The situation isn't dangerous, but it can be annoying. I suggest you have a helper move the steering wheel with the engine off while you watch the shaft move....you will be able to see the play in it if that is the actual problem.

Good luck.

PS....I have pics of my intermediate shaft if you need to see the area that is affected.....let me know.

Feb 17, 2010 | 02:02 AM

enventr

Safety Car

Joined: Aug 2006

Posts: 4,147

Likes: 452

From: Port St. Lucie West Florida

Quote:

Originally Posted by 94vettelover2

my vote is the steering coupler u-joint under the hood. Mine does the same thing (95) have someone turn the wheel and you look at the steering u-joint under the hood. This is a common problem. The part is discontinued but may be able to get a used part. Mine was like this for many years.

Feb 19, 2010 | 06:45 PM

LannyL81

Thread Starter

Melting Slicks

Joined: Nov 2005

Posts: 3,323

Likes: 142

From: Green Valley Arizona

I will check both cars this weekend.

But sure sounds like their is not hope in fixing it.

Thanks for letting me know what to look for and that it is not just my two cars.

LannyL81