Steering Play

bdMember

I removed the steering rack from my early 71 (1386) to clean it and replace the bushing on the passengers side. The rack and pinion looked good so I reinstalled everything and added the new bushing to the rack. I installed the rack then had the front end realigned. Now I think there is more play in the steering than before! I disassembled the steering column to check the plastic bushing just above the first u-joint and found it to be okay also. What gives? Did I screw up the reassembly of the rack? Can a poor alignment job cause play in the steering? The upper ball joints are new and I believe the tie rod ends are original but okay. The car has 53000 miles on it. Anybody got any ideas?

12/1/027:28 PM

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bosswrenchMember

To install a rack bushing, you must have removed the steering rod at least from the rt side. Its difficult to get the adjustment of that joint back to 'normal' unless you have the factory spanner-wrench. Most everyone uses a pipe wrench or vice-grips on the spanner-nut. The proper adjustment is when the rod barely sags of its own weight. Ford's Pinto and Mustang 2 use the same TYPE of steering and the adjustment procedure is the same (but not spelled out in the Pantera Shop Manual).You may also have lost the spring that is inside each joint.

12/2/029:22 AM

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