The M.O.T. check this year on my 2005 4.2s suggested slight play in the steering rack. Is there any adjustment possible to get rid of this play or is it a matter of replacement when the play becomes excessive?

Ray

 

Before purchasing a steering rack, you may want to investigate other steering components - ball joints, bearings, bushings, etc. For a 2004, depending upon use and mileage, I would question the steering rack being the culprit of loose steering play. The term "steering rack" becomes the catch all phrase to include a number of items when an individual states that the steering has play.

 

Did he give you an 'advisory' or just make the comment?

If you chose not to have a printout, you can check your MoT records at:

Check your MOT online

This will confirm the full MoT history of the vehicle including any advisory notices issued.

Wear in the track rods is not unknown in XK8's and there have been occasional reports of it on the forum but usually on considerably older models than yours.

The mounting brackets sometimes catch out testers because there is a very small amount of lateral movement:



However, the observation has been made by a qualified tester and my reaction would be to go over the steering and front suspension to be certain. As Jag13cat wrote in post #2, it could mean many things.

Graham

 

Hi Graham,

The VOSA Advisory says "Slight movement in steering rack, offside and nearside". Mileage, 47000. It may be the mounting brackets as you suggest. I will have that checked. Thanks for the info.

Ray