This is topic Has ANYONE had this problem? in forum Tech Talk at Northern California Ford Owners  .


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Posted by T-TopTerror (Member # 480) on :
 
So VERY randomly my steering locks while turning to the LEFT. I have put a considerable amount of force on it trying to get it to break free. Nothing. But turning the wheel ever so slightly to the RIGHT frees it and then I can go to full lock to the left again.

I originally assumed the lock pin. I have since removed it and the car still RANDOMLY does this. I assume its something in the column since visually I dont see anything hanging up in the engine bay or under the car.

This problem MUST be found since it has already made my car spin at a low speed due to my inability to correct the steering under a slide. It is a def danger.

ANY IDEAS????
 
Posted by JohnB (Member # 969) on :
 
Broken power steering rack. Something internal, such as a tooth on the gear.

As you've stated...probably not the best thing to drive it.
 
Posted by 68stanger (Member # 7842) on :
 
if the broken column was dagerous enough to where it almost caused an accident, i would forget about tring to pick apart your column find the issue. it will be more work taking apart a column then it is to just swap it out.

just swap in a complete working column and be done with it.
 
Posted by rollininmy50 (Member # 9067) on :
 
i have a tilt wheel and column for sale 20.00 bucks and its yours
 
Posted by T-TopTerror (Member # 480) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by JohnB:
Broken power steering rack. Something internal, such as a tooth on the gear.

As you've stated...probably not the best thing to drive it.
How sure are you that it's the rack?
What about the steering shaft? Can it bind?

I have had the column apart already. Really not that difficult and really nit much in it that can randomly stick.
 
Posted by JohnB (Member # 969) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by T-TopTerror:
quote:
Originally posted by JohnB:
Broken power steering rack. Something internal, such as a tooth on the gear.

As you've stated...probably not the best thing to drive it.
How sure are you that it's the rack?
What about the steering shaft? Can it bind?

I have had the column apart already. Really not that difficult and really nit much in it that can randomly stick.
Disconnect the column at the coupler, then run it through...that will single out the problem.
 
Posted by T-TopTerror (Member # 480) on :
 
Well Autozone has racks for $55 so I just replaced it. I will let you know if the problem occurs again. If you don't hear from me then that must have been the problem. Also the shaft had some play in it and since the installation of the new rack, and me verifying everything was tight, the isnt the slack anymore. I do notice now tho how much play in my column there is tho. side to side and up and down. It is a tilt but maybe I should buy that one for $20 that one of the members is selling right now. idk.
 
Posted by KevinK (Member # 9234) on :
 
The 2nd gen. Mustangs would do the same thing. There was a bushing in the steering rack in front of the input shaft. Just take off the metal plate and replace the plastic bushing. I am not sure about the 3 gen. Mustangs. It's probably similar but may not be serviceable. Worth looking into.
 
Posted by T-TopTerror (Member # 480) on :
 
I haven't experienced the problem once since replacing the rack. I assume something was going on with it. Aside from a slightly loose steering wheel(tilt wobble) the steering feels great.

I don't think I am in danger of dying now [Wink]
 




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