Loose steering dead zone? (and heavy steering too)
01-18-11, 02:29 PM
#1
1983 RX7 GSL
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Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: Eugene, OR
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Loose steering dead zone? (and heavy steering too)
Hello everyone.
I recently purchased a 1983 RX7 GSL, all stock, 5 MT, 100k miles. I love the car and realize it is somewhat of a project at this point, but there is one thing that really bothers me right now:
The steering has some free play around 0 degrees lock. About 2-3 degrees or so both ways, the wheel has absolutely zero resistance, regardless of speed, and vehicle does not respond to the inputs either. (hence the zero resistance). Additionally, once the steering is rotated enough and does pick up and begin to function, it is very very heavy; it feels like there is something resisting rotation besides the normal weight and whatnot of the vehicle. I am bothered by this particularly because of the fact that even at 75 MPH, the steering is still very, very heavy. I realize there is no PS, but still, this car is pretty light and it just doesn't feel right.
Sorry for sounding super negative; I just wanted to make sure I was thorough with my description. I am new here and I really appreciate having an online resource.
Thank you in advance for your time everyone
I recently purchased a 1983 RX7 GSL, all stock, 5 MT, 100k miles. I love the car and realize it is somewhat of a project at this point, but there is one thing that really bothers me right now:
The steering has some free play around 0 degrees lock. About 2-3 degrees or so both ways, the wheel has absolutely zero resistance, regardless of speed, and vehicle does not respond to the inputs either. (hence the zero resistance). Additionally, once the steering is rotated enough and does pick up and begin to function, it is very very heavy; it feels like there is something resisting rotation besides the normal weight and whatnot of the vehicle. I am bothered by this particularly because of the fact that even at 75 MPH, the steering is still very, very heavy. I realize there is no PS, but still, this car is pretty light and it just doesn't feel right.
Sorry for sounding super negative; I just wanted to make sure I was thorough with my description. I am new here and I really appreciate having an online resource.
Thank you in advance for your time everyone
01-18-11, 02:36 PM
#2
the freeplay in the steering in very normal for an FB. i don't have one that doesnt hae free play. there is really no safe way to adjust teh steering as adjusting it can cause steering box failure.
as far as the heavy steering effort is concerned, ensure your tires are inflated properly forst off. inspect the steering system components i.e. pitman arm, idler arm drag link, inner and outer tie rod ends for wear and binding. another area of concern would be the steering shaft's upper bearing. you'll have to remove the steering wheel, column surround, and como switch and you will see the bearing pressed into the shaft. some times the needle bearings inside lose the grease and get worn and can cause a binding condition.
as far as the heavy steering effort is concerned, ensure your tires are inflated properly forst off. inspect the steering system components i.e. pitman arm, idler arm drag link, inner and outer tie rod ends for wear and binding. another area of concern would be the steering shaft's upper bearing. you'll have to remove the steering wheel, column surround, and como switch and you will see the bearing pressed into the shaft. some times the needle bearings inside lose the grease and get worn and can cause a binding condition.
