Steering column play (again)

[JonathanT]

Like many before I've got some play in the steering on my '99 Chim. We've isolated the two UJs and the rack (all of which seem fine) as my mechanic can hold the top UJ still whilst moving the steering wheel. We reckon it's a big plastic (?) knuckle joint in the steering column which allows you to adjust the rake of the steering wheel.

Is this replaceable (if so how) or does this mean a whole new column? Apparently TVR did something to the bottom half so it'll not be an off the shelf part???

[AceOfHearts]

Hi Jon,

I will Try to get some pictures of the big plastic knuckle on my old steering column now, so you know what you are up against before dismantling your own car

[JonathanT]

Thanks! Does anyone know what the top half is from? mk-x Cavalier?

[JonathanT]

Thanks!
Apparently these columns come in a variety (three?) lengths. What do I need to measure (or how) without dismantling everything? I guess the only relevant bit I can get to is in the wheel arch?

[AceOfHearts]

Sorry Jon I couldn't find the column the other day (hopefully I haven't chucked it away!)

I will have a good rifle through the garage later

[AceOfHearts]

Better late than never? Stumbled across this in the back of the garage earlier





Impossible to feel any play in it out of the car. I have replaced almost every steering component now and still haven't sorted it. I was confident it was the column though as I clamped the top UJ and still had play at the wheel. Very annoying

[JonathanT]

Thanks for that - I've deferred this task to later this year now. It looks like that centre joint isn't easily get-at-able....

[AceOfHearts]

No, before I had it out of the car I was debating removing the joint completely and making the column non-adjustable (if anything just to confirm that the play is coming from there)

From looking at it though you would have to basically destroy the aluminium cage round the joing to get to it and remove the barrel and steering lock. More thought needed I think