Steering column play

[scl]

Another noise question for my '96 Dodge. I bought it used, 55k miles, and I notice a a little clunk in the steering wheel, like there's some play in the colun. I figure its from the previous owner and his wife pulling themselves into the truck, with no running boards. I haven't started digging around yet, just wondered if anyone had a good guess of where to start. Figure ther's a bushing or bolt flange somewhere.

Thanks
Scott

[wyldman]

There are a few possibities that it could be......

1) loose steering shaft - try sliding a zip tie down inside the slip shaft,and fill it with grease.

2) lower column bearing - not a servicable part,have to buy the whole column.Most people just live with it.

3) bad track bar - the noise will sometimes sound like it's something loose in the column.Check the track bar to make sure it's good.

[duckman1]

I had the same problem with my '97. I also felt it in the brake pedal when braking over a bump while turning... my driveway every day! Turns out the "toe plate" was worn. It was still under warranty so dealer fixed it. Just before I sold the truck it had started again. Check the service bullitens and you will find it. Do a search for your problem and you will probably find where someone has tried the "zip tie" method. I know I read about it somewhere. It had detailed instructions on how to take things apart.

E

[Coldblue]

ive learned i have the same noise. i can feel the noise in the auto shifter on the column. and can hear it when turning when in close quarters. can someone post the link the the zip tie procedue. im wilin to try that first, is it going to hurt anything if its the joint, to let it go for a while.

[wyldman]

The slip shaft connects the steering column to the steering gear.You should be able to pop the hood,and reach down and give the shaft a shake.If it moves up and down,this is most likely your noise.

You can take zip ties,and slide them down in between the two shafts,to remove some of the play.The play is what causes the knocking noise.You can also drill a hole,and install a small grease fitting on the larger shaft,and then pump it full of grease to help keep it quiet as well.

Check the track bar too.Start the truck,and have someone yank the steering wheel hard back and forth.Watch the track bar joint where it connects to the frame.You will most likely see the end of the bar moving up and down quite a bit.If there is any noticable movement,replace it.Wheels should be on the ground when checking it.