Question on play on steering column

[Tom_Lynch]

Hi guys - I have horizontal play on my '66 TR4a shaft. It moves about one inch in/out towards the firewall which doesn't exactly inspire a lot of confidence.

I've had to fix vertical movement where the bracket broke on my TR6 but this is a new one for me. Any tips and ideas?

Thanks!

 

[HerronScott]

Tom,

Is this just the inner shaft that's moving or does it also include the outer portion as well? Asssuming just the inner, the clamp that secures the upper outer column to the upper inner column would be first my first guess. Should be a locknut and adjustment with an Allen wrench.

Scott

 

[Darrell_Walker]

Do you mean the entire column, or just the shaft?

If you mean the column, there are felt pads inside the clamps that hold it, either the clamps need to be tightened or the felt replaced. Of course check the brackets that mounts it all too, they are not the most sturdy things.

There is also a piece that ties from the upper column clamp down to the firewall (I think, I can go look later if you don't see that).

 

[KVH]

If the entire outer shaft is moving with the inner, you just don't have the shaft properly secured in the rubber and felt lined C-clamps beneath the dash. Very simple fix. Be careful not to strip any of the bolts that go into the firewall while messing with the clamps.

If the inner shaft is moving, you don't have the column locating clamp and plate fastened correctly inside the engine compartment--requiring a 7/16 socket and a hex wrench for the fixing screw.

Both very easy fixes. The 7/16 bolts go first (not too tight), then the hex screw, then the locknut around that screw.

 

[Tom_Lynch]

Thanks guys - need to get back out to the hanger to check it out.

 

[Tom_Lynch]

Hi guys - just to close this out it is the outer column is moving. Thanks again!