This message is marked as Important.

Subject: Sloppy steering Author: ambishop as Martin : member since December, 2003 : 3238 posts Posted on: 2005-01-13 21:42:49

Sloppy steering
Adjusting is fairly easy: * raise front of car on jack stands, so steering is unloaded * Turn steering wheel about 1 full turn CCW (front wheels point left). * Look down at steering box under hood (bonnet?) beside engine: - adjustment is a large screwdriver slot, with lock nut around it. * loosen the lock nut (CCW) * tighten slot (CW) * turn steering wheel 2 full turns CW (front wheels point to right). - you should notice slight increase in resistance as steering goes thru straight-ahead. - if no resistance increase is noted, then tighten slot (CW) a little more and rotate steering wheel back through straight-ahead to test resistance. - if too much resistance, loosen slot (CCW). * tighten lock nut (CW), while ensuring slot does not move. * If the steering feels too numb when driving after this adjustment, then it is too tight. * I think the official adjustment procedure disconnects the steering linkage, using a special gauge to measure the steering resistance.
This adjustment was enough to cure sloppy steering for an 85 735i with 225,000 miles (about 360,000 km). I have done the same with success also for an E21 and E24 steering box.
Some steering boxes also have adjustment for "end play" of the worm gear. This "end play" adjustment is on the end of the box, opposite from the steering column. Replacing the steering box is best accomplished with the engine removed. At least, the motor mount and stabilizer need to be disconnected so the engine can be raised for clearance. Before removing the old steering box(es), be sure to mark exactly what spines match to the arm and column joint, so that the straight-ahead position can be restored. The Pittman arm may be difficult to remove without a Pittman arm puller.
The steering boxes for 5 and 6 series of similar vintage have matching splines for the input and output shafts, and have a faster ratio for more responsive steering. However, these boxes are smaller (perhaps not strong enough?) and completely different mounting than the E23 steering box that would require cutting away the old mount and welding new ones, which could be dangerous if not expertly engineered and fabricated.
The replacement steering box will probably need adjustment, particularly if it is obtained from another old car.


BMW Navigation Upgrades - www.bimmernav.com

• Sloppy steering - Martin 2005-01-13 21:42:49 (1157 views)