Wobbly steering

[11redrex]

Was changing the discs and pads yesterday. Under the drivers side, checked for wheel bearing play before removing the wheel, noticed a lot of slack in the steering.
I can move the wheel quite a bit before it meets any resistance.
Got the wheel off, got hold of the steering column and turned it, moved it about 1/8th of a turn. The pitman arm, drag link, track rod and hub moved as well, so I arseume the slack is up the top of the column.
Is this right ? Could it explain the pulling to one side ? Can I fix it ?

 

[4x4_Gav]

Not too technical response from me lol, however, both mine and my Mrs' dads has quite a bit of play in the steering, possible its more of a "feature" that a problem?

The Mrs' dad has taken his to a few garages about this and they can find nothing wrong.

Unless its massive obviously then there is an issue, but I would say they certainly arnt the most responsive cars when it comes to the steering.

 

[clivvy]

have you had the tracking/balancing done?have you checked the main steering rod? i believe the links are attached directly to it, and this can cause play if the links are worn.

 

[11redrex]

Checked and changed just about every part of the steering. Drag link, rack rods ends, the rods themselves in case they were bent, arb links, ball joints, drive shaft, etc.The compression rods are next on the list but I can't find anyone selling a poly bush kit for them...

 

[rustic]

Isn't there a mechanical term called "lost motion" ?
I think this was used to describe the Terrano steering.

lost motion  –noun Machinery .
1. motion of a machine or mechanism, esp. a reciprocating one, during which no useful work is performed.
2. motion between parts in an assembly due to manufacturing tolerances, adjustments, slip, or wear.


With the engine off it is normal for the steering wheel to be moved 35mm at the top of the wheel without any thing happening.

The steering box can be adjusted, BUT with great CAUTION.

 

[11redrex]

The play is all above the lower joint, so no adjustment needed from the lower joint down. I haven't measured the play at the steering wheel but I'll bet it's more than 35mm.
I think the steering problem is down to the tension rods. Got to find some new ones quick !

 

[badger]

adjust preload on steering box, either by the manual method, or sensibly by feel.
i cut a small section out of battery tray to enable it to be done on car.
now play at wheel and pulling to left has gone.
and 35mm is nearly 1.5" that is a lot of free play.