Is it worthwhile to try to adjust the slack in the steering box on the steering rack? I have done this quite a few years ago to other vehicles with mixed results. I know you have to be careful in not getting the adjustment too tight. I don't remember reading on the forum of too many people doing this.

 

Hi Scotlad,

Please remind us of the year, model and engine of your Jag so we can give the most accurate replies.

If the underside of the pinion housing of your steering rack has a hexagonal adjuster inside a graduated ring, you may be able to reduce steering wheel play by increasing the pinion preload. Off the top of my head, on the XJ40 and X300 the hex is 17mm. Rotate the hex adjuster clockwise a little at a time until you achieve the desired result. If you go too far, the rack will lose its ability to self-center, so when coming out of a turn the steering wheel will maintain the turn until you rotate it back to center. If this happens, back off a little on the hex adjuster until self-centering returns.

Other issues that can contribute to steering play include worn inner/outer tie rods, perished steering rack bushings, perished suspension bushings (especially lower control arm bushes), worn or failing front wheel bearings, perished rear subframe bushings (these have a surprising impact on steering precision), the U-joints in the steering column, use of incorrect fluid in the power steering assist system, etc.

Cheers,

Don