"Lumpy" steering

[Bob696]

Started last week and Karen describes the steering as "Lumpy" which is as good a discription as any.

Sometimes as you turn the wheel for a split second it is slightly stiffer than normal, almost undetectable. It can happen anywhere as the wheel rotates.

I have checked the fluid level and that is OK. What else should I be looking at? I am thinking belt .... how to check it?

[Budgie]

Steering shaft U/Js are dry.  

Cover both U/Js with something like 3-in-1 oil and leave overnight to soak in, normal (clean) engine oil will work just as well.  :D
Don't bother trying WD40 as it'll evaporate and you'll get the same problem in a couple of weeks.

[v8kenny]

If the power steering belt is a wee bit loose it will give this effect - the steering will get heavy as the belt slips
When was it last changed ? - all belts stretch a little from new and need a tighten
Also worth checking that all the universal joints in the steering column are free and not binding - give them a good soak in WD40 as someone works the steering backwards and forwards
Belt should have a bit of give in the tension - about half an inch I reckon

[v8kenny]

Agree about the oil but WD40 will show results quicker to eliminate joints - then oil 'em  

[Bob696]

Thanks guys. Slopping oil on a few joints is something even I can handle :-)

[Dave K]

Could be the first signs of your spower steering box going.
My Ninety used to have lumpy spell first thing, which disappeared as the fluids warmed up.

[AbyssDJ]

a loose belt will give juddery steering... you'll be able to feel it "pulsing" when you turn it

[thepsychoman]

Thanks guys. Slopping oil on a few joints is something even I can handle :-)

Okay - but be careful. I had this symptom on my 90 and decided I might as well push the boat out and spend the £12 on new UJs. When we fitted them the old ones disintegrated - literally! Glad I didn't just stick some oil on them - if they'd have broken up when driving....  :oops:  :oops:  :oops:

[muckmoses]

Does it have PAS?

If so it could be that the fluid needs bleeding.
3 Bolt box is self bleeding, but 3 & six bolt boxes have a bleed nipple on the top.

Start the engine and undo the bleed nipple.  Wait till solid ATF comes out the retighten.

[Bob696]

Thanks guys. It was the UJs. Greased them up and now seems fine  :D

Used some chain lube (for motorcycles) I had left over. Should resist all the grime that gets in there (there again might just wreck it)