JD 50 power steering worm gear shim adjustment

[chas036]

Can some one give me an idea of what the average thickness of the shim between the worm gear assembly and the pedestal is on the power steering assembly for a two cylinder John Deere?

I tried following the procedure in the power steering service manual but I just can't see how the thickness of that shim relates to the movement of the steering wheel.

I turn the steering shaft and I have about 3/4 inch movement at the steering wheel until the shaft hits the spring and stops, This falls in spec with what the manual states is good. . But I don't see how adjusting the shims between the worm gear assembly and pedestal can affect this movement . If I turn the steering wheel harder , I can feel the spring kick in in the worm gear assembly and then the worm gear moves and the front tires start to move.

Currently I have .007 as the shim because I could not find the old shim and I just took a guess.

 

[beenthere]

Can only suggest to try different shims to see if thicker or thinner makes a difference. The best to you.