Hi folks,

I've posted about this before, but I'm still perplexed. I'm hoping for a little bit more help.

It appears as if the steering wheel is loose on the column - control is tight, and predictable, but if I wiggle the wheel back and forth rapidly, I get a 'click' that seems to be based in the upper steering column. When I do my 'wiggle test' the tires wiggle, too - and not just when I reach the click, but all through the narrow range in between. So I am pretty sure my steering gear and tie rods and bushings are tight. Like I said, it seems to me that it's in the column. I always thought that one of my u-joints was loose, but I never was able to quantify it.

How do I go about investigating the problem?

Thanks!

Ari

Check out the U-joint, and jiggle the tie rods/ends.

Based on my 240, steering wheel jiggles and watching the wheels move aren't terribly diagnostic. You really need to investigate things component by component, starting at the front wheels, eliminating culprits as you work your way up to the steering wheel it self.

My problem also felt how you describe, but it was indeed the U-joint.

-Ryan
--

Athens, Ohio
1987 245 DL 314k, Dog-mobile
1990 245 DL 134k M47, E-codes, GT Sway Bars
1991 745 GL 300k, Regina, 23/21mm Turbo Sway Bars

Starting to develope the same sort of steering column "click" in my '88. Seems to be transmitted right up the steering column and comes from right behind the steering wheel. Intermittantly happens when I either stop or turn. Haven't really checked anything out yet besides removing the column covers inside the car. I suspect it's brought on by some really nasty speed dumps installed by my employer at the entrance to the parking lot. I also have to routinely go over 6 speeds bumps recently installed in my neighborhood to slow down and divert traffic.

Ari,

Unless you MASSIVELY modified your car you do not have a "steering gear" it is just the steering rack (which could be worn).

As for checking the universals in the column, check them just as you would the universals on your drive shaft. Firmly grab each side and see if you can detect any play in the center "spider".

If you can don't even bother with new parts, go to the junk yard and pick them up for ~5 bucks. (new they are often pushing 150)

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE, make sure the ball joints and all the tie rod joints are good.

Andrew