steering and suspension "dead Spot" In Steering

[ATLBMW]

Interesting thing happened while driving today. While turning left, I felt what can best be described as a dead spot in my steering. It was like a little bit of slack or slop halfway through my turning of the wheel. Felt almost like a loose wheel, but I doubt it (and will check when it is not 20 degrees). I kept turning through it, and accomplished my turn but it was a weird feeling.

I have put it up until the weekend - any ideas?

Thanks in advance,

Keith

[austinmf]

Search for steering box. The all have play when turning. The have an adjustment nut.

Ireland engineering has a refurb kit.

It should not just come apparent. They gradually get out of spec. Check all your steering components

[Roland]

The dead spot, as you describe it, should not have appeared without plenty of warning.

 

Yes, a worn or maladjusted steering box can exhibit sloppy or nonresponsive steering.  But, I would be more inclined to first examine the rag joint coupling the steering column to the steering box and  all tie rod ends and ball joints.

 

No. 4

 

Edited January 25, 2014 by Roland

[M3M3M3]

 

The dead spot, as you describe it, should not have appeared without plenty of warning.

 

Yes, a worn or maladjusted steering box can exhibit sloppy or nonresponsive steering.  But, I would be more inclined to first examine the rag joint coupling the steering column to the steering box and  all tie rod ends and ball joints.

 

No. 13

think you meant #4, not #13...

and +1 to checking all the rod ends, center rod, ball joints and srut top mount.

[Roland]

 

think you meant #4, not #13...

and +1 to checking all the rod ends, center rod, ball joints and srut top mount.

 

 

You are correct.  

 

(Wouldn't hurt to check all the numbers - when it comes to steering and brakes.)

[cuchetti]

Does anyone know where to buy a new rag joint?

[Simeon]

With the car on the front wheels, get someone to enthusiastically waggle the steering wheel back and forth through any 'dead spots'. While this goes on grab a torch and follow the steering gear from the steering column, through the rag joint, steering box and out to each wheel looking for 'lost motion' (I.e. play in any of the joints where 'input force' is wasted by slop in whatever you are looking at. 

 

If all of the expendable joints, idler bushes etc check out then move on to adjustment of the steering box. Don't over tighten!  It is better to have a bit of play than steering that hangs up, won't return to centre naturally and increases the rate of wear of the box. 

[M3M3M3]

Does anyone know where to buy a new rag joint?

anywhere that sells 2002 parts.  

bmw dealer

blunt

IE

etc, etc, etc.

 

it is a common part.

[zinz]

While this goes on grab a torch and follow the steering gear from the steering column

torch = flashlight

[jireland2002]

If you feel a knotch about 3/4 of the way to full lock, it is most likely a worn gear in the steering box. 

[Simeon]

torch = flashlight

 

 

Whoops, sorry. I try and substitute the appropriate fenders, hood, trunk etc but that one slipped through. As a British born Australian I have to be tri-lingual with the English language. 

[ndog]

^   how many threads are left (exposed) on your steering box

[PaulTWinterton]

how many threads are left (exposed) on your steering box

 

3 to 4.  I'm ready to adjust mine with a little reassurance from those that have done it before.

 

Following this thread 'cause I think I felt that same dead spot.

 

In the last 5 years I've had all my suspension refreshed, so I'm a little concerned.

[jgerock]

Another view is from the ground looking up at the clearance between the steering (drop) arm #5 and the suspension control (track) arm. If the top adjustment threads that are showing are minimal, that forces the steering arm lower (and closer) to the track arm. The rebuild (refresh) kit from Ireland includes hardware, seals and a gasket, but not any bearings.