<VV> Hitch in Steering

[Hank Kaczmarek]

Joe
I could be way wrong, but here's something to consider.

You have replaced the top bearing, but not the lower.

Based on the theory that what once was old is new again,

The condition you described is similar to customer complaints on 03-04
Silverado trucks and some of the cars, usually the W Platform Monte Carlo
and Impala.   There is a lack of lubrication on the intermediate steering
shaft. I am not sure that there is an intermediate shaft bearing also.  I do
know that Chevrolet developed a lubricant that fixes the complaint, in
different size tubes for trucks and cars.

My guess is that your lower bearing is the cause of the hitch in the
steering. or the steering box may need to be inspected. If forced to decide
I stay with the bearing.

FWIW

HANK
----- Original Message -----
From: "N. Joseph Potts" <pottsf@msn.com>
To: "Corvair List" <virtualvairs@skiblack.com>
Sent: Tuesday, April 13, 2004 8:58 PM
Subject: <VV> Hitch in Steering


> My 66 has developed a subtle "hitch" in its steering that is evident at
low
> speeds and seems to occur somewhere around the straight-ahead position. It
> is intermittent, getting worse (of course), and today made a very soft
bang
> or snap when letting the wheel turn past the point at which the hitch
> developed.
>      From the pitman-arm bushing out, the whole suspension/steering system
> is new-ish. I include "ish" only to indicate that all these new parts not
> long ago performed flawlessly, and did so for long enough that I really
> don't suspect any of them, nor their installation. From the steering box
to
> the lower shaft bearing, the system is, as far as I know, virginal. I
> replaced the top bearing (at the steering wheel) a few years ago. New-ish
> stuff includes all bushings, ball joints, the springs, and tie rods
> including ends.
>      The behavior of the steering otherwise is perfect in all respects -
no
> shimmy or looseness. Except for the KYB shocks and 195/70R14 tires on 14x6
> steel rims, the front end is all stock. Both have been in service long
> enough that I don't consider them suspects.
>      The idler arm is original, but I don't suspect it because the
steering
> is so tight (as noted above). Should I suspect it?
>      My suspicions center on either the box or the coupling.
>      Any suggestions as to what I should address first? Thanks.
>
> Joe Potts
> Miami, Florida USA
> 1966 Corsa coupe 140hp 4-speed with A/C
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