Steering rack play? Suggestions?

[cronoz78]

Looks like there is some play in my steering rack on the passenger side basically where the boot covers. I will just replace the rack or does anyone have any better suggestions to attack first?

[grannyknot]

Well under the boot is the inner steering ball joint, some racks had welded nuts holding that ball joint together, some had regular torqued nuts so it is possible that those nuts came loose and that is the movement you are seeing. Sure you can replace the rack if you want but I would investigate first. it might be a simple fix.

[cronoz78]

I'm trying to figure out how to upload the video of the shake. It would keep it much easier for you to see. Any ideas? I get an error saying that it doesn't allow mp4 files.

[zedfoot]

Load your video to U Tube or similar then upload the url using the link icon and Upload from URL.

[Dr.Diesel]

Under the boot is the inner tie rod end that may be worn out. This is a common problem. It also could be the outer tie rod ends that may be worn out. What makes the vibration of the steering wheel left to right really stand out as speed increases in addition to the worn out components is too much negative caster in the alignment of the front end. Proper positive caster will give straight line stability. As Grannyknot suggests, a little more investigation would be advised before you go further.

[cronoz78]

Thanks Zedfoot!
Here is the video. See how the play seems to come from the inner side. Unfortunately a piece of the boot was covering the area.

https://youtu.be/TPw8TS8Au0o

[cronoz78]

So it looks like it's the rack itself. I'm about to order a rack but it has both rh threads. Is it true I can now use 2 rh outer tie rods since the left is nla.

[Ont240]

Yes on the RH threaded tie rod outers.
did you check the u-joint on the steering shaft that meets the rack? they often get sloppy.

[cronoz78]

Ok Ill double check there. but the movement is coming from the passenger side rod moving up and down (see the video above) and a teeny bit from the inner rod ball.

[Ont240]

There is a bushing inside the rack tube. Unless you have access to a lathe, it's not a normal replaceable part. I fellow in the club rebuilt one and did new bushings both end, had access to a machine shop on his time.

Is it causing slop in the steering wheel?
i have a good used rack tube from a 240 which is likely smaller in diameter than yours. 280 correct?
the 240 rack rod measures.985” diameter . 7D11339C-40CE-4E82-8533-554A4CCE25D2.jpeg

[dutchie3]

Was going to suggest bushings here as well. I had some movement in my steering rack and replaced the bushings and all hardware. A pita to do, so if you are doing to do them, new rack at the same time would not hurt if you need it...