Steering "catch

[dave lowry]

On the last trip in our '76 Royale, we developed a slight "catch" in the
steering. While cruising the interstate, every thing is fine. But when
we're on curved roads we experience a resistance as the wheel passes
either 2 or 10 o'clock (slight right or left turn). Some extra pressure is
needed to pass the resistance, and the condition seems to be getting worse.

I have had 2 different mechanics (neither GMC "experts") look at the
problem and they have differing opinions as to its cause. The alternatives
offered so far are; 1) the steering gear ass'y is worn and needs to be
rebuilt or replaced, or 2) one or more of the bearings in the joint at the
base of the steering shaft have failed.

I've reviewed the past posts on this subject (I also clip & save them by
subject), read the maintenance manual and studied the parts book, and am
inclined to have the joint bearings replaced as a 1st step. But before I
have any work done, I figured I'd better tap the source of most knowledge
(GMCnet) for some guidance.

Does anyone out there have some specific experience and/or advice?

TIA

 

[philip l. stewart]

>
> On the last trip in our '76 Royale, we developed a slight "catch" in the steering.......

> Does anyone out there have some specific experience and/or advice?
>
> TIA

Dave, a couple years ago I noticed a slight "catch" in the steering on
my GMC as you have experienced. Zeb Frady fixed it for me by taking off
the steering box and adjusting the "drag" on the unit's steering sector
per the shop manual procedures. I'd suggest that as a starting point for
you. Also check out http://california.com/~eagle/steering.htm for
a procedure if you feel like doing it yourself. Good luck.

Phil Stewart
'76 Transmode, TN

 

[ritch hwang]

Howdy Dave:

Had a similar problem while wending our way to Marion on our maiden voyage.
Talked to Ken Frey about it while there, he recommended changing the power
steering fluid & adding an inline redundant filter with magnet. Did so at
the rally & all seems to be well - so far anyway. That's what I did.

/////////////////////////////////////////
Date: Tue, 15 Dec 1998 17:01:09 -0700
From: dlowry (Dave Lowry)
Subject: GMC: Steering "catch"

On the last trip in our '76 Royale, we developed a slight "catch" in the
steering. While cruising the interstate, every thing is fine. But when
we're on curved roads we experience a resistance as the wheel passes
either 2 or 10 o'clock (slight right or left turn). Some extra pressure is
needed to pass the resistance, and the condition seems to be getting worse.
- ----- (snip)
/////////////////////////////////////////

As always, best regards.

~ Ritch & Betty Hwang ~ Clarkston, MI ~ mailto:rhwang
Visit our home page ~ http://www.concentric.net/~rhwang/
~ =^..^= Trinket ~ the shy Persian kitty ~
~ 76 GMC Birchaven ~ FMCA F249339 ~ RVClub 00930 ~ ICQ# 6408591~
(B}>