Manual Steering Shaft, Bind???

[ktmrob200]

On the 73 that I've been driving the last month or so the steering has a kinda bind or tight spot. It is only noticable at very slow almost stopped or crawling speed. It occurs in either direction from center about every full rotation of the steering wheel. I've checked the joint at the bottom of the shaft, which appears to be the only one. It was full of grease and I can't see any bind there with someone else turning the wheel for me. Any ideas?? I dont have anything else to drive so I'm hoping not to get in to an expensive or long repair.<br> <br> Thanks for any help<br> Rob<br>

 

[mgweiss]

I had this problem last year and it turned out to be the steering box. I thought it was the rag joint too and replace the shaft with aftermarket one, but still had the same problem. It would bind up pretty bad when turning about half way to full lock. I found a used box that seemed fairly tight and bolted it on, problem solved.

 

[thegreatjustino]

Column bearing going out?

 

[ktmrob200]

Mgweiss you might be on to something. I noticed that with the front end jacked up on stands, that I can still feel the spots it catches but a lot less noticably. So by having the wheels in the air and taking the pressure they put on the whole system out, I'd say the box may be the problem. <br> I hate to keep robbing parts from my 77, but it looks like next week might be a time to do a power steering swap. Then I'll have the excuse in the spring to upgrade the power steering on the 77 to a rock box or something.