Bill-
Re: Steering play....
First thing is to decide where the play is coming from. It is a
fairly common problem which may originate in the
1. steering column split shaft connection clamp (later cars..)
2. steering box worm bearings ( adjustable via shim pack)
3. steering box 'rocker shaft' ( peg that follows the worm's
groove)( adjustable via
screw and locknut on top of steering box)
4. steering links- inner and outer tierods and related pivots. (
replace as needed)
5. overall suspension wear- If the car received more than just a
cosmetic upgrade, the
F. suspension should've been rebuilt as well...
I'd recommend jacking up the front and giving things a closer look.
Have someone hold the steering wheel still while you tug on the wheels (
securely support the car...)and observe any obvious 'wiggle' problems.
Then, watch the suspension and steering components as the 'driver' moves the
wheel L & R through its range of play. Sometimes the offending component
can be located this way. If everything looks reasonable tight, the problem
is likely in the steering box. Turn the wheel fully L-R and listen for any
nasty mechanical sounds coming out of the steering box. Any rough noises
can be pretty expensive to fix, even as a DIY job. If the steering travels
smoothly, it is likely that an adjust ment can be made- first to the
shimpack, then to the slotted screw in the top cover plate. BE SURE TO
follow the proper procedures documented in the literature. DO not be
tempted to crank down on the top screw without first removing all the play
from the bearings that support the steering shaft(worm). When the bearings
are correctly adjusted, loads within the box are distributed more evenly
amongst the ball bearings. If you crank down on the top screw while the
bearings are loose, the loading is concentrated on only a few of the balls
at a time. This can and does cause failure of the bearings and bearing
surfaces on the worm. Nasty repair job, and you may have to rob a bank....
Re:
3000rpm vibration- do you think this is strictly an engine
vibration or does it happen only at road speeds...? what is the engine
history? mileage?damage history?... Could be any number of things....
Good Luck!
Bob Westerdale
59'3A TS36967E
Bill Loubiere wrote:
I am considering the purchase of a TR3A. The car has been very recently
restored and looks terrific.
When I drove it, there was some play in the steering. Maybe +/- an inch
in either direction. Is this normal for a TR3?
The body is very sound and ride is solid. There is some vibration
around 3000 RPM's. It goes away if you move either up or down from that
point. Any ideas on what might cause this?
Any help will be appreciated.
Bill
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