steering rack play

[jonnyd61]

my steering rack seems to have a lot of play in it even more so wen the wheels are turned slight to the left or right
my steering wheel moves half inch or so either way when I straighten the wheels it isn't has bad on play on the wheel
all seems tight under the steering wheel and Colum is there anything a can tighten up to help this ??
thanks

[Jonesfach]

What are your track rod ends like?

The connection from the rack to wheel hub....they most likely shot....

[Iain]

Check the UJ on the column, the pre-tension nut is inside the engine bay just in front of the pinion. If that has loosened it would allow the rack to slop around inside.

[jonnyd61]

haven't checked that ian yet will take a look at that later.. iv checked all the bolts under steering wheel also the column all seems good
checked the track rod ends and inners again all good
was thinking something in the rack its self could this be possible ???

[8valve-craig]

Yes the rack itself can be moving. Check the bushes. If its a solid mount use something thin to shim it. Mine is doing it at the moment, I'm going to make some small dowel's if there is enough material in the rack.