Loose steering - how much is normal? - Page 2

M1031A1 · 09-15-2015, 05:59 AM

In Texas, it's .25 of an inch if I remember correctly.... As I posted earlier, ALL the buses I drive have NO play at all.

wunderhut · 09-15-2015, 08:09 AM

It's 10 degrees. That translates to about 2 inches on a 20 inch wheel. Any more and a big rig fails inspection, out of service! There's a reason it fails inspection; it is not safe! Your bus shares most of the same steering components as the big trucks. If it's not safe for a big truck, it's not safe for your bus either.

Trask97140 · 10-20-2015, 08:47 PM

Assuming this is way to much play... when I do that, the steering wheel doesn't move. Or does the engine need to be on, to create pressure???

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_nm...ature=youtu.be

Booyah45828 · 10-21-2015, 01:52 PM

I don't know if I'm reading you right, when you twist that shaft, the steering wheel doesn't move? Looks like you have a 1/4 turn of play? Either way, that amount of twist is beyond excessive and close to being dangerous. Have the gearbox gone through and try to clarify what you meant about the wheel not moving.

Tango · 10-21-2015, 02:17 PM

Ouch! Can't recall ever seeing that much free play without the gear engaging. If the the pitman arm does not move with the shaft from the wheel, there is an enormous amount of wear/play in the gearbox itself. That definitely needs tending to. Time to replace it all most likely. Any heavy duty wrecking yards nearby?

Trask97140 · 10-21-2015, 04:55 PM

That is correct, while rocking it back and forth the steering wheel does NOT move...

So new gearbox ya say?? Ill have to look around about the heavy duty wrecking yard. Im not certain. Think that would be a fairly easy find?

Thanks for the input Booyah & Tango

Tango · 10-21-2015, 06:28 PM

You might check with some International or other truck service companies to see if there is a rebuilder in your area. Would be cheaper than all new but likely more than a used unit. There are a couple of shops here in Houston that rebuild medium to heavy duty gear boxes. If you go used, be sure to check it out as best you can. Like I said, the pitman arm should move right along with the wheel shaft. Mine is a used Isuzu but it has pretty much zero play and moves smoothly all the way from stop to stop.

Good luck with the hunt.

Trask97140 · 10-21-2015, 08:45 PM

Good call! There's a local International dealer/shop called Brattain International. Heard some good things, Ill give them a buzz and see what they say. Definitely need to get this figured out ASAP. I thought it liked to walk a bit more than normal... no more driving for me. Hopefully go the rebuild route if possible.

Thanks,
Trask

Dragonpop · 10-21-2015, 10:27 PM

I would do your experiment with the engine running so you have hydraulic
pressure. Some of the play your experiencing could be play in the spool valve
and your play may decrease with pressure on the system. Then I would try
adjusting the gear box if the play is not to excessive when powered up. Just a
thought.

Booyah45828 · 10-22-2015, 10:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Trask97140

That is correct, while rocking it back and forth the steering wheel does NOT move...

So new gearbox ya say?? Ill have to look around about the heavy duty wrecking yard. Im not certain. Think that would be a fairly easy find?

Thanks for the input Booyah & Tango

You got major problems then. The steering wheel and shaft should move in unison, with no slop at all. Anything else shows worn u-joints in the shaft, which is worse then the play in the gear box.

Get the shaft and wheel solidly connected and then we'll figure out what to do with your gearbox.

Trask97140 · 10-23-2015, 01:37 PM

Misscommunication from my buddy sitting in the bus. The steering wheel moves just fine with the twisting of the shaft... which makes sense because I've driven it multiple times. Haha. So I'll be looking into the gearing as there is definitely a lot of play. Just need some time to work on ol 82 now. Busy busy... thanks for the help!

Tango · 10-23-2015, 01:46 PM

Makes sense to me. From what I could see in your vid, the slop all appeared to be in the gearbox. But...re-check everything after you get the box tightened up. If IT had that much wear, there is a good chance the rest of the system is due for some maintenance (bushings, tie rod end, etc.)

Trask97140 · 10-23-2015, 01:57 PM

The tie rods/bushings seem to be in good shape and all greased up. But im no expert. Probably take it into the international shop and have them give it a once over for me. Will give me some peace of mind.

You may also like: