Power Steering Gear Play Worm Shaft Bearing

[Belle66]

Hi Guys & Gals,
I've got a rebuilt power steering gear. At the shaft attached to the coupling, there is 80 degrees of rotation that does not engage the worm sector. This equates to about 1/2 inch of axial movement in the shaft. I've adjusted the gear shaft for back lash, and still have this looseness at the input shaft. This is with the engine running. All other parts of the steering system are in good order.

I searched the forum and saw a comment that there is supposed to be some looseness of the input shaft. Is 80 degrees and 1/2 inch axial movement OK? If not what is acceptable? The car wanders a bit and as all other parts of the front suspension are sound I believe this to be the cause. Anybody else been here already?

Best Regards,
Joel

 

[Budnicks]

that sounds pretty excessive to me... I'd get a different box or call the people who rebuilt it... talk with them

a little play with the engine not running, "is somewhat normal" especially on power steering, but not anywhere near that amount it sounds like your describing... do you have a Factory Service Manual ?? it should be covered in there...

 

[Belle66]

Thanks for the input Budnicks. The factory manual goes through the worm sector bearing preload adjustment in terms of running torque and does not mention axial movement or backlash.

I've got another box coming and got to thinking, "what do I do if the replacement is the same as the one I've got." Contacting the rebuild facility is a good idea. Thanks again!

Hope the mud stays out of your home.

 

[Budnicks]

Thanks for the input Budnicks. Thanks again!

Hope the mud stays out of your home.

I'm in the NorCal Central Calif. Sierra foothills, far above all the carnage, down south or in the lowlands... But thanks