With the engine off, should there be any play in the steering column.

On mine at present, I am trying to track down an issue with instability / wandering. I have already changed the tie rods, tie rod ends, balljoints, anti roll bar links, shock bushes, but still have the issue.

I have noticed, that if I sit in the car and rock the steering wheel from side to side, I can get about 5mm of slack either side of central before any resistance is felt. Could this be a an indicator of lower column wear ?

 

I get a similar feeling, but only with the car running, if it is off, and I try to move the wheel, I am met by great resistance, as well as the wheel locking up after about 3mm of movement either direction.

 

Sounds like a worn Universal joint at the end of the column, the column shaft pokes through the front bulkead and the UJ is bolted to the end that goes to the rack, it could be that it needs nipping up, but more likely the later updated part fitted as your car is a 98. There was a revision part in the next model year - something for you to look into.
Hope this helps.

 

should be no space to play and steering should have a very solid feedback

Sean is right as exact issue happened on my car

steering was getting loose and I did not pay attention. it ended up I lost the steering(lucky I was able to pull over my car)

u joint couple teeth were gone and dealer wont have just this brand new part for me unless I purchase entire column shift assembly priced over a grand, are they fxxking kidding me . I finally found a salvage part on ebay.

my advise is FIX IT ASAP

 

I have removed the lower column from the car, all the splines on the main column and steering rack are in good condition with no signs of wear.

The UJ's on the lower column appear to be in good order with no discernible wear, but there is a little bit of lateral play in the sliding joint, depending upon how far extended it is.

 

Managed to track down a good, used, modified lower column, will see how compares

 

Let us know what you find. I have the same issue on my '00 VDP. It's only noticeable on on highway. does not feel like a suspension component. Feels like something lose in column/rack.

Thanks!

Oliver

 

Got the replacement shaft, but the plastic sealing collar is smaller.

So I am just waiting on some more filament for my printer to knock a new one up, so that I can use my existing rubber seal, rather than buy a new one.