dodgy steering

[slim_adi]

ive got a 1971 LHD bay microbus, and ive recently noticed something strange with the steering....

it feels fine in the dead ahead position - a bit of play but nothing to worry about - however, when i turn, there feels to be LOADS of initial resistance - almost as if ive a flat tyre - followed by a sudden "loosening" - as if going into bad oversteer. Then - when turning back to centre, it seems as if the self-centre action is diminished as well

this happens when turning in both directions and it seems to be worsening.

ive tried to describe it as best i can....

am i about to buy a new steering box, or could it be something cheaper and easier ?

 

[angus]

Can't give you a specific answer, but CHECK EVERYTHING!
Couple of years ago I swung into my then driveway in our 68 and was surprised to have to back out a bit and have another go. Didn't think anything of it until half my lock had gone as I left the drive the next day. Had a look underneath to see the central pivot box (the one welded to the centre of the axle) was hanging off - hate to thing what might have happened if it had failed whilst at speed.
Check all the joints and linkages, check they are greased (surprising how much resistance can be felt ona dry universal joint on a non-servo-assisted steering set up) - may not be a UJ in the van system - can't remember!
Something has changed to give these results - best find out before driving again - even if it just turns out to be a dry box :shock: ....

 

[angus]

Sorry - that all sounds really obvious, and I am sure you have already checked underneath.....

 

[chrisby]

What you discribe sounds like the steering box may have been over adjusted . I did this when trying to take the freeplay out on my old split .
Dont take this as gospell , just an idear.