C6z Loose Steering?

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Apr 27, 2015 | 01:46 PM

Dlauth

Thread Starter

Instructor

Joined: Oct 2012

Posts: 112

Likes: 0

C6z Loose Steering?

I have a Z with 88k miles and am thinking something in the steering is loose.

The steering just doesnt feel as direct as it should be and I am thinking either something needs to be replaced or tightened.

Thoughts on this issue?

Thanks

Apr 27, 2015 | 08:43 PM

RicK T

Team Owner

Joined: Sep 2005

Posts: 20,352

Likes: 568

From: Ventura County, Calif

That's pretty vague.

If all of the suspension pieces check out okay then it could be a bad rack. Not an uncommon problem but you should have it diagnosed by a competent mechanic rather than just throw on a new rack.

Apr 28, 2015 | 12:30 AM

Dlauth

Thread Starter

Instructor

Joined: Oct 2012

Posts: 112

Likes: 0

It feels like there is slack in the steering wheel. It seems to take a while to engage the steering.

Apr 28, 2015 | 08:08 AM

Dial In Corvette

Instructor

Joined: Sep 2010

Posts: 152

Likes: 8

From: San Diego California

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dlauth

It feels like there is slack in the steering wheel. It seems to take a while to engage the steering.

Try tightening the outer tie rod nuts first. My 11 GS with 12k miles
were barely snug from GM and caused issued. 18mm wrench and an allen (don't remember the size).

Apr 28, 2015 | 12:44 PM

Dlauth

Thread Starter

Instructor

Joined: Oct 2012

Posts: 112

Likes: 0

When I have time, I will troubleshoot this further.

Its as if when I turn the wheel a little, nothing happens to the wheels.

Apr 28, 2015 | 01:28 PM

torquetube

Le Mans Master

Joined: Dec 2004

Posts: 5,492

Likes: 808

From: West coast CA

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dlauth

When I have time, I will troubleshoot this further.

I wouldn't put this off if you're actually driving the car.

Check the pinch bolt that secures the steering shaft to the rack. It takes 2 minutes.

Apr 28, 2015 | 01:29 PM

Dlauth

Thread Starter

Instructor

Joined: Oct 2012

Posts: 112

Likes: 0

I understand your worries but it is not that drastic and im not sure if its just how the car is supposed to feel or if it is in fact something loose.

Quote:

Originally Posted by torquetube

I wouldn't put this off if you're actually driving the car.

Check the pinch bolt that secures the steering shaft to the rack. It takes 2 minutes.

Apr 28, 2015 | 01:40 PM

cclive

Team Owner

Joined: Mar 2008

Posts: 21,502

Likes: 462

From: Southern Utah

The first thing I would check is the feel of the steering when the car is turned off and sitting in the garage. Gently feel the steering as you move the wheel back and forth. If you feel play, then something is worn or (less likely) loose. If you don't feel play, then the issue is likely the alignment. Alignment can make a big difference in the way the steering feels on the road at speed.