play in steering - 1500D

[tmoritz]

The play in the steering of my 1500D is exactly half a turn of the steering wheel. I assume that's waaayyyyyyy too much. Trying to go straight on a road (which I did for the first time a day or two ago) involves tons of steering. Could others tell me how much play you have or find acceptable? Thank you much!

 

[LMTC]

You can adjust the play to a small extent, but it's only an hour or so to open it up and look at it. If you replace bearings that are wearing and fill the reservoir with grease you might save yourself from buying a column assembly for a couple hundred $. When the bearings go, they do a lot of damage.

 

[tmoritz]

Your advice is much appreciated, LMTC. Thanks!

 

[boonesmith]

If you haven't already, check for a loose steering arm on the left spindle.

My 1500D had a loose steering arm which resulted in a lot of play.

 

[tmoritz]

Thanks Boonesmith. I'll check it out.

 

[VT_Hokie]

Check the ball joints in the linkage too....

 

[tmoritz]

Will do. Thanks.