Steering U-Joints Options

[aylanco]

Hi All,

My new-to-me '73 2.0 is in need of the Turbo tie rods for sure, but I am a little suspect about the steering u-joints under the dash. They seem tight when I grab or wiggle them, but if I turn the wheel I can feel (and hear) them undulate. They just feel a bit sloppy when turning the wheel.

I have seen almost nothing discussed about them, have not seen anything in books/manuals other than identifying them, and have not seen them offered in parts catalogs. I know the Rodders use them and they are available that way BUT....does anyone have any insight on the maintenance and or replacement of these? I know I should do the tie rods first but is this u-joint problem a common occurence?

BTW, this 914 is too cool. I have hardly driven my other cars since I got this!!! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/mueba.gif)

[Jeff Bonanno]

you sure it's the u-joints, Seb? they don't see much stress or weather. could be several other front end suspension components before these joints.

jbb

[aylanco]

Hi Jeff,

I don't count anything out right now, Jeff!! Although I do highly suspect the u-joints. They make a slight rumbling noise and undulate when the wheel is turned back and forth, and the steering is a bit sloppy. I hope the tie rods solve it all, but who knows??!!?? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wacko.gif)

Any other thoughts out there?

[scotty914]

bushings in steering column go quite often ( after 30 years) also the steering rack

[KenH]

Jack the car up so the front wheels are not on the ground. Then see if the steering still feels bad.

Also the U-joints are not linear and the 2 must be alingned propelry or the steer wheel will feel like it is going "over center" - not rotating smoothly.

Look under the dash you should not see any slopp in the joints as the steering wheel is moved back & forth.

Just some thougths

Ken

[aylanco]

Hi Ken,

Thanks for the advice on that....I definately see slop when the wheel is turned back and forth.

[aylanco]

As I said before, my first move will be turbo tie rods (as well as checking out the rest of the front end) but if the
u-joints don't check out OK then is there a proper procedure for replacement? Is there a good source for them or should I do the Rodder thing and get the nifty stainless units I see in the catalogs?!? BTW they are not cheap from those sources...