Steering Column Play, MOT Fail?

[indy4x]

I have a Jeep Cherokee XJ, am getting a few jobs sorted on it before taking it for an MOT

It has some vertical play in the steering column. The source of the play is the tilt mechanism so column and bearings etc are fine

Is this likely to be an MOT fail?

 

[octo0072000]

you want to ask @doubleboost

 

[m_c]

Hard to tell from that video, but as long as any play isn't excessive, it's not a fail.

 

[indy4x]

It's about 5 to 6mm vertical play at the wheel with a corresponding clunk

 

[m_c]

That amount will be down to the tester's discretion.

That's the kind of thing I'd drag a tester across to get their opinion on.

 

[pedrobedro]

Does it do it whatever position the column is in ? It might get you an advisory as above try asking before you commit to a test.

 

[gordon stephenson]

I would say 5mmto 6mm is too much, A volvo I had failed with much less, On stripping it, I found that the spring loaded self centreing bearing was in upside down.

 

[indy4x]

@pedrobedro it does, or rather it did

It's now fixed, well fixed in that there is no more play in the tilt mechanism but the fix also means no more tilt adjustment

That's fine, it's only me that drives it so it's fixed in a position that suits me

 

[minimutly]

Most minis would fail then....

 

[Bobupndown]

Most minis would fail then....

Mine certainly has significant play....

 

[Matchless]

Mine certainly has significant play....

a few oval nails used to tighten those felt or nylon bushes

 

[doubleboost]

Sorry I missed this post.
Looks like a pass to me .
Possible advisory

2.2.2. Steering column or forks and yokes​

Before carrying out this inspection, make sure that any mechanism for adjusting the steering column is fully locked. Exert only reasonable pressure on the steering wheel, particularly when the steering column is collapsible.

Some vehicles have flexible top bearings for the steering column which may have more than average movement.

Steering columns with universal joints or flexible couplings may show some movement which is not due to excessive wear or deterioration.

Unsafe modifications include:

• welded repairs
• the use of excessive heat to highly stressed components (see Appendix A)
• modifications likely to affect the roadworthiness of the vehicle

To check the steering column or forks and yokes:

1. Push and pull the steering wheel in line with column.
2. Push steering wheel or handlebar in various directions at right angles to the column or forks.
3. Check visually for play.
4. Check the condition of flexible couplings or universal joints.

 

[indy4x]

@doubleboost thanks for the info, my concern was there appeared to be some free play with an associated clunk

 

[angellonewolf]

its a clunk that would worry me id say there is a problem there

 

[indy4x]

@angellonewolf the steering column is 1 solid tube, it pivots at the bottom where the steering UJ is.

The clunk was not from the steering part but the adjuster mechanism

Either way it's now sorted

 

[Melvyn Best]

Have you checked out the amount of endfloat jeeps have in the rear hubs? All that holds everything together is a small circlip on the inner end of the half shaft

 

[indy4x]

@Melvyn Best yep, C clip axles are not ideal, this one has the Chrysler 8.25" axle, Dana 30 and 35 have the same C clip setup a well

But, I do have a Dana 44 ready to be built up and these didn't have the C clips