Loose Steering

[timlot]

My Elan seems to have developed play in the steering, I can move the steering wheel when on the move or stationery about 5 to 10mm without moving the road wheels, are they all like this or does anyone have any pointers on what it might be? Can't say I noticed it much before I had the tracking re-set and new tyres fitted.
Many thanks chaps.
Tim

[Brit-Car-Nut]

There is a U-Joint in the steering column setup that can fail and, of course, the steering rack, track rod (tie rods in the US) ends or the actual track rods could have excess play.

The company doing the tracking adjustment should have noticed ANY of those issues. You might take it back and ask them to explain since centering the steering wheel is part of tracking adjustment (wheel alignment in the US)

[sprogg7]

Hi There

i had the same problem with my car. the steering would turn approx 5 degrees with out the front wheels moving. i finally tracked it down to a worn spline in the U/J joint at the bottom of the steering rack.

best of luck

[mdanbury]

My Elan had the same issue. In my case it was due to wear in the steering box, fortunately this can be adjusted. There is a small screw with locknut on the steering box all you have to do is tighten it up a bit until the play is removed, DON'T overtighten.

[timlot]

Many thanks for your comments, I've got it booked in with my friendly Lotus specialist tomorrow to have a good look, I'll keep you posted on the outcome.