Clio steering play

[dalepowell]

There is a lot of play in my Renault Clio steering. Any ideas ? I have checked the U/V joint on the colomn. Is it the rack itself ?

[KebabMeister]

You need to check the track-rod ends.  They are located at either end of the steering column and connect to the steering hubs.  If you go full right-hand lock then you should be able to check the near-side (left hand) track rod end (and vice-versa).  Get someone to gently rock the steering wheel whilst you notice movement in the track-rod end.  If there is play then it is unserviceable and a new one will need fitting.  You can fit them yourselves but you'll need the 'tracking' checking/adjusting afterwards.

 

If the track-rod ends are okay then it might be play in the steering rack, but highly unlikely.

 

How old is the car?

[dalepowell]

1993

[KebabMeister]

Although it's getting fairly old I still think it is unlikely that the steering rack is at fault, unless water has managed to get inside via a seal etc.  If it's PAS and ran out of oil then t could damage it too.

 

First thing you should check is the track-rod ends mentioned in my first post.  It's 99% certain to be them.

[Dayvid23]

Hi there, if it is a mk1 clio with excessive free play, it might poss be the pin that connects the steering column to the steering U/J, these are prone to break off, i had the same problem, and as a mechanic i just welded the column to the U/J, that should solve the problem!

[nimrod_uk]

Hi Dayvid23,

I have this problem and given the nature of the play am sure it is in the column, not further down the steering chain so to speak. How easy is it to get to the steering U/J/ can it be got at with the column in-situ or does it need it removing to weld or repair?