QuestionQUESTION: I am looking at purchasing a 73 Chevy Nova, and I took it for a test drive. The vehicle seems to be in good shape, my question comes from how the steering column handles. The steering wheel seems to have too much free play in it. Before I commit to purchasing vehicle, I would like to know the severity of this issue and what type of expenses I would have to be looking at.
Thank you!
ANSWER: Hi Francisco:
I'm not quite sure of your question. When you say there is play in the steering column, it is a bit confusing to me. I need you to clarify if the column has looseness and moves around (without the truck even moving) or if the truck does not respond to turning when you turn the steering wheel while driving. Both are referred to as play in the steering & I need to know what you are experiencing.
If you have looseness in the upper end of the steering column just sitting in the driveway without trying to move or turn, then we can discuss the probability of the steering column beginning to come apart (this is very common if it has tilt steering).
If you are talking about wandering on the road while driving and the steering does not respond to slight corrections, causing you to over-steer, then I need to defer this to a front end specialist (tie rods, gearbox, etc.)
I'll watch for your answer
Thanks
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Yes, Sir, the steering wheel does not seem to respond to slight movements while I am driving. I can be driving the vehicle and I have to tilt the steering wheel in a certain manner in order to keep it driving straight.
AnswerThanks Francisco:
This is a steering problem, not a steering column problem. Either bad tires, a steering gearbox going bad or something loose under the vehicle is causing it not to react immediately, not a steering column issue. You should refer this question to someone in general automotive repair as this is not my area of expertise, sorry.
