Loose steering / clicking sound

[matts1972]

Hi there,

Can someone please verify if a light clicking sound from somewhere in the steering column is normal with the engine off and moving the steering wheel?

I never noticed this while driving but the steering always felt a bit too heavy and there sometimes is a fairly loud "honking" noise when the steering is under heavy load, so I am investigating.

Thanks,
Matthias

[matts1972]

Can someone please verify this? Is your steering absolutely tight when turning the wheel left and right? Mine seems to be a bit loose, so there is just a slight metallic sound when moving through dead centre. This could as well be normal (but also could be unwanted play in an UJ).

Thanks,
Matthias

[RayD]

There is seemingly no free play on mine Matthias or any accompanying sound track.

It might be a good idea to jack both sides up so you can turn the wheel more freely and isolate the source of the sound.

If it only occurs with the weight on the wheels … put two sheets of plastic under each one, it will overcome the tyre friction – magazines might have the same effect but in your case cause too much noise.

Ray

[matts1972]

Thank you, Ray
This is helpful, I will take a look at it.
Best regards,
Matthias

[bobbrown]

Also do not forget there is a particular orientation to the lower UJ see attached so if the noise is from this area and the UJ is suspect it is possible is not fitted correctly

[matts1972]

Thanks, Bob
I will check the UJs first (not only for play but also orientation), then the track rod ends. Hopefully it's not the rack.
Regards,
Matthias