steering play
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 137
Likes: 0
From: Crestview Hills Kentucky
steering play
Does anyone know if there is a replacement coupeling on the steering column to replace if you have sloppiness or play in the steering wheel on an 87 z52?
Pro
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 616
Likes: 13
From: Loudon, TN
Re: steering play (kohlbear)
Yes you can replace all the couplings but it is not something that is done routinely to correct excessive sloppiness in the steering system. The coupling would be something that you have to get from a GM dealer. I would be more inclined to suspect worn tie rod ends or the rack itself causing the play in the steering than a worn coupling. With the engine off, have someone move the steering wheel while you watch steering column shaft. If the column shaft moves as soon as the steering wheel is moved then there probably is no problem with it. Then look down at the wheel where the tie rod end connects with the hub and have someone turn the steering wheel and watch to see if there is slop in the tie rod end. If none there get down where you can see the steering rack and turn the steering wheel and see how much movement of the steering wheel is needed to cause the tie rod to move. The tie rod should move as soon as the steering wheel is moved, if not then the wear is probably in the rack.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 137
Likes: 0
From: Crestview Hills Kentucky
Re: steering play (George Dickel)
The play was not noticable with your tests. The items moved right away.
I did notice that the steering wheel tends to jerk to the right when I am coming to a final stop. I just had the pads replaced and the rotors turned. They said everything looked ok with the calipers and joints/bushings. Maybe it needs a good brake bleeding and possible brake fluid hoses? I heard they can be checked by seeing if they drain properly?
I did notice that the steering wheel tends to jerk to the right when I am coming to a final stop. I just had the pads replaced and the rotors turned. They said everything looked ok with the calipers and joints/bushings. Maybe it needs a good brake bleeding and possible brake fluid hoses? I heard they can be checked by seeing if they drain properly?
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 3,424
Likes: 1
From: Tucson Az
St. Jude Contributor
Re: steering play (kohlbear)
Probably the same ailment we all have. Deep down in the column, some plastic bosses get worn. Big job to do yourself. Expensive if you hire it done..................
[Modified by edsalinas, 11:45 AM 1/22/2004]
[Modified by edsalinas, 11:45 AM 1/22/2004]
