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diagnosis check for steering column u joints Posted by Saabu [Email] ![]() ![]() In Reply to: Steering or alignment question..., Jan Markham, Sun, 12 Aug 2007 11:51:03 Members do not see ads below this line. - Help Keep This Site Online - Signup |
jack the car up on both sides at the front so that tires are off the ground.
center the steering wheel.
at one tire, grab the tire at 3 and 9 oclock and attempt to turn the wheel as if the car was turning left or right. attempt to go lock to lock. if you feel a smooth uninterrupted turn, the u joint is ok. if it binds here and there, the u joint is probably dry of grease or worst case, shot.
many previous posts have suggested the hair dryer treatment ie blast the u joint with heat from a hair dryer (not the easiest access..) and turn it numerous times to circulate the internal grease amongst the needle bearings in the u joint. that may solve the problem for some time.
eventually these things wear out, unfortunately a replacement new item is approaching $400 iirc. i pilfer good ones from the wrecker whenever i can.
Wayne in Calgary
ps i've never heard vvack's explanation before...and frankly i dont quite agree with it. perhaps the new ball joints need some time to loosen up, but dont think overtightening them can cause stickiness. the single nut has to be very tight, far as im' concerned.
posted by 75.153.180...
_______________________________________ 1988 900 TC 2000 Viggen 1997 900 TC son has 2002 9-3 SET
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