Steering Looseness

[krscholz]

I have a 75 with a completely new front end except for the power steering pump and gear box. I have noticed some looseness in the steering wheel that makes driving slightly erractic when I change lanes (drifting). I have tightened the adjustment screw on the box but this hasn't helped enough. Have any of you had the same problem and what did you do abou it.

 

[Jimdvette]

The steering box maybe excessively worn , the "rag joint" maybe bad , the steering column bearings could be worn , and there is an adjustment on the power steering control valve also. You'll have to check these components. I usually grab the "rag joint" and check for play in the box and joint by turning it side to side and see how far it goes , then pull it up and down to check the lower steering column bearing. You should invest in a service manual . It has spec's and service procedures in it.

 

[muddywaters]

A freind of mine has a 76, where the hyd. cyl. attaches to the frame was cracked, you should check that area. Good Luck

 

[GTR1999]

As the other said check for parts being worn. The rag joint sould be flat and not breaking down,it should be a GM rag as well. Those rebuild rags are junk. The box can be check on center, there should be no lost motion in the box on center. Adjusting it by just turning the lash screw may over adjust it and then you'll wreck the gears if they're not already worn out. The best way to adjust the box is out of the car with the correct torque wrench.
This is how I build them. It may help you if you get to that point.

http://www.digitalcorvettes.com/forums/showthread.php?t=76773

Check the idler arm, and the frame as mentioned for ripping.

If you have a problem contact me and I'll help you out.

 

[krscholz]

Steering Looseness - Update

In checking with Chevrolet manual for loose steering it says to start with the power steering pump and check belt tension. Yes, that was the problem. The adjusting screw was loose and allowed the pump to work intermittently and especially on the highway when changing lanes. Thanks for all your feedback.