Hi guys,

I know I didn't want to post here anymore, but what the heck. I guess or hope all has calmed and cooled down. I most certainly have.

Right, the question here: I have read about a technical service bulletin regarding the lower steering column on early X308 and X100 models. It is supposed to cause some knocking in the steering...

As my steering rack had seen better days, I replaced the entire lot. Rack, tie rods, endlinks,bellows... The lot. Especially as I didn't fancy going back in for more. The result, steering is a lot better, but not crisp as a Jag should be.

I have a few degrees of play in the steering column and you can feel it then 'knock' something when you go to move it from the central straight position. It is kind of vague. You are connected to the wheels but it feels as if a sponge is between the column and the rack.

I've noticed, that the design of the lower column has changed. Mine has some bellows on it. The newer type has no retractable section.

So, before I go out and buy a new column for >€500, I wanted to ask: does this sound exactly like the problem mentioned in the TSB? Has anyone else experienced this? As said, my old rack was worn. But my new one is basically a brand new part...

Thanks

Damien

The 'knock' in the lower column was felt at low speeds over rough surfaces. (ie, driving slowly through a bumpy parking lot etc.)

I replaced many in the early 2000s. It was NOT a Recall or Service Action!!!
It was paid for by Jaguar if the car was in New Car Warranty!!!

bob

I have that knock too! I have changed all bushes and ball joints and what not and it won't go...

Cheers, Bob!

Have you got any idea what the "spongeyness" in my steering might be then? As said, my old steering rack had quite a bit of wear in the pinion... The new one has none and has also mad steering better. But it is still very vague around the middle and you feel a certain "contact" in the steering. Kind of like if you have wheel bearing float. When you move the wheel, it will move freely in the worn areas.

Did the original steering column sections (lower) have some kind of area inside which would also get more and more play? I noticed there is a splined area, retractable with some gaiters/bellows around it. Can this area get some nasty play over the year?ss?

Thanks!

Damien

This pertains to the X300 which is similar . There are shims that can be inserted into the gap between the lower steering assembly and the cars mounting brackets without removing the steering gear . SPC1059 may be the number . This removes the walking of the steering . There is a technical term for this .

That looks like a steering rack from an X300. Which isn't the same as that from an X308. I have new rack mounts. The issue is definately now BEFORE the rack aka in the column I can still feel play in the column...

But thanks for the idea... Though it unfortunately won't fit the X308.

Cheers

Damien

I don't remember what was different about the replacement column. (too many years ago!!)

There are 3 areas of splined connections, upper to lower column, sliding joint on lower column and lower column to pinion shaft. (check all pinch bolts)

You might have a worn Universal Joint in the lower column causing the sloppy-feel.

Also check the upper column mount bolt near the brake pedal mount. If that is loose the column can move up/down and cause looseness.

Make sure it is the lower column and not the upper in the TILT area near the steering wheel.

bob

Thanks Bob!

Would a worn upper column be noticeable when changing the tilt angle? In my thought it should, as as different tilt would put the U joint in a diffrent position, possibly minimizing the play...

I'be been googling the differences between the lower columns. Not only are the shafts different, the newer one has a rubber coupler at the top and has different yokes...

After checking my car, I have an older column. So I'll do a shot in the dark and buy one. A used one is cheap enough... Luckily.

Cheers

Damien