Scary steering.

Discussion in 'Technical' started by shaneb, Jan 12, 2012.

  1. shaneb

    shaneb Member

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    Is it possible to tighten something to make the steering column not have any play? I have two inchs of play when driving on the highway and if I hit a bump I'm all over the road which is very scary.
     
  2. Racer_X

    Racer_X Maverick Hugger

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    should be to metal tabs attached to the column down were the column goes through the firewall try those and see if that helps
     
  3. rwbrooks50

    rwbrooks50 Member Supporting Member

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  4. Acornridgeman

    Acornridgeman MCCI Wisconsin State Rep Moderator Supporting Member

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    Steering gear box and if you have power steering, the P/S control valve are all adjustable. As Rick pointed out, there are many threads to search out that will help you. Also, check for play in the linkage, tie rods and idler arm as they all get worn or the rubber shrinks and causes play. Check the rag joint too.
     
  5. shaneb

    shaneb Member

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    Thanks guys! I have manual steering, so I might look into replacing all the bushings first. There shot to he!l and starting to fall apart. Anyone know of any cheap places to buy them? My wife is already complaining how all the money goes into the maverick.
     
  6. Jsarnold

    Jsarnold Senior Member

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    Oh yeah!! :yup::rofl2: I like to take wifey to the shows and cruise-ins and have her hear about guys that have 6 or 10 hobby cars. :clap::D
     
  7. shaneb

    shaneb Member

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    Ok so im going to get all new bushings before I mess with the steering box and fill it with the 50/50 thin grease. What all bushings do I need so I can order them all at once and fix it this weekend? I plan to go with only MOOG parts if they have them. Please let me know and thanks again for everyones help!:Handshake
     
    Last edited: Jan 12, 2012
  8. darren

    darren Member

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    Check all the linkage. Its doesnt take much play to give you 2 inches of play in the steering wheel in these cars. With the ratio of the manual box and the bus sized steering wheel a bad tie rod can do that. Mine needed two outer tie rods that had a bit of play. Seemed a ton worse to drive the car though. Like mentioned check everything rubber also. Dont forget to look at the strut rod bushings under the rad support. The play havoc with a car at speed.
    IF your unsure of what your looking at spend a couple of bucks and have it inspected at a good shop. It wont be expensive for an inspection and quote. At least you'll have an idea what your into.
     
  9. shaneb

    shaneb Member

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    Thanks Darren! I will look at it when I get home and let everyone know what I find out.



     
  10. shaneb

    shaneb Member

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    Yeah all my bushings are squashed to crap and falling apart. I did notice that with someone in the passenger side I dont have any play in the steering.
     

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