Re: [T3] Steering Box

["Dave Hall" <dave@hallvw.clara.co.uk>]

Firstly, there is a lot of movement on these boxes at the extreme
positions; that's not a problem, it's a "feature".  Assuming the tie-rod
ends, bearings, steering coupler etc are all OK and you have found
excessive free play with the steering wheel at 90 degs, you probably need
to adjust the steering.

There are 2 adjustments.  You should do the one involving the big (41mm)
locknut first (axial play).
Raise and support front end;  turn steering fully left or right.
Loosen the big locknut, and tighten the socket screw; I use a 15mm 'box'
(tube?) wrench (smaller but a bit like the VW lug wrench/spark plug one).
Rotate the steering coupler until there is no more play detectable.  Check
the wheel turns smoothly from lock to lock, and doesn't bind in the middle
part (there is least free play in this part).  If it does, slacken off the
adjustment a little.

If there is still too much steering play (with wheels on ground again), you
need to do the worm to roller play.  That's the small locknut and screw on
the top of the steering box.
Lift again; turn the steering to 90 degs left or right.  Loosen the small
locknut, and loosen adjusting screw about 1 turn.  Tighten the screw until
the roller can be felt contacting the worm.  Tighten the locknut to 14 - 18
lbs.ft. (2 - 2.5 m.kg), no more.
Check the steering wheel free play with the car onthe ground, and the wheel
90 degs left or right; max = 1" at the steering wheel rim.  If there is
more play one side, repeat the adjustment with the steering turned 90 degs
that way.

Road test and check the self-centring action.  If it is too tight, you will
damage the worm and roller.

If you still have excessive free play, the box may need the steering roller
shaft renewed (if they are available!).


All details taken from original factory manual.

Dave.
UK VW Type 3&4 Club
http://www.hallvw.clara.net/
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