Steering?

[dlow]

I have a '92 W250 4X4 that is exhibiting a strange steering characteristic. When I turn the steering wheel all the way left or right I then hear a "clunk" and my steeing wheel goes 45 degrees off center. As I drive down the Hwy it eventually comes back into alignment.

Does anyone have any ideas?

Thanks.

 

[mblair]

I noticed your truck is a 4x4. See if it is not returning to center, like wheels are stuck in rut or something. Mine was doing this and it is caused by universal joints front wheel wearing out. The joints cant be lubed from factory so they get stiff. When wheels are off ground, with engine off and steering wheel unlocked,see if wheels are really stiff to turn. Mine were. I got new joints and what a world of difference!!! Also, check the mount bolts on your steering box as they may be loose also from the stiffness like mine. Good luck. My joints cost 30. 00 a piece at autozone. I think yours will only be about 13. 00 to 18. 00.



Hope this helps. .

I learned about the possible cause of problem on TDR!

 

[Midnite]

Mine clunked exactly like you describe, and it turned out to be a cracked adapter plate between the steering gearbox and the frame. The crack was so small that the shop had to hot tank it to discover that's what it was.



I figured it was okay because I couldn't get the gearbox to budge by reefing on it as hard as I could by hand. The thing is though, when you turn the steering wheel you're putting *far* more torque on the box than you could ever do directly by hand. Oh well, I know now...



Mike

 

[McGivern]

steering

My steering bracket cracked at about 120K. The dealer should have it in stock. Do yourself a favor and put in a Borgeson shaft while your at it. Changing the plate is not a bad job.

Mark

 

[dlow]

Thanks so much one and all.

I'll be checking the u-joints and bracket.

I really appreciate the help,

-Dale