stiff Steering

[dholcombe]

I have a problem with the steering on my 93 Discovery 200tdi. It feels stiff to turn from straight and then eases up and feels ok until the steering wheel has been through 180deg and then it stiffens up again. This continues in this pattern through the entire range of the lock.

I have bled the power steering system using the nipple on the top of the unit and even tried turning the wheels whilst bleeding to try and free any trapped air. But this doesn't seem to help.

Anyone had similar problems/ any ideas?

Darren

[Budgie]

Try the UJ's on the steering shaft to the steering box incase one of those has seezed.

When you bled the steering box, did you have the engine running? I only ask cos last time bled the steering and moved the wheel there was a shower of ATF all over the engine bay. :p

When the steering stiffens up, is the wheel always at the same place in rotation, just thinking it could be a bent collum.

[English rose]

The steering box does have a stiffer sector which should normally be either side of the straight ahead position. If it has been fitted incorrectly the stiff sector could be offset to one side.

Andy
www.landroverheaven.com

[Spotter]

I see Zoe's been logged on again while I wasn't looking.

Andy
www.landroverheaven.com

[dholcombe]

The engine was running when we carried out the bleed. Fluid was collected via a pipe and pot whilst keeping the reservoir filled up.

The problem started after carrying out some work on the engine (new head gasket) but at no time was the steering column disconnected. Can't imagine the UJ's are seized as it occurred almost instantly. No pressure was applied to the column so bending could not have occured.

The pump was moved to allow access but no pipes disconnected.

The wheels were turned manually a couple of times during the works without the engine running. I wouldn't think this could induce air into the PS system?

Will try bleeding the system again tonight, but still puzzled??

[Budgie]

Nothing as simple as the belt to the pump slipping or contaminated with oil?

[dholcombe]

Turned out to be a very stiff UJ on the steering column which I managed to lube and loosen up and it's now good as new and smooth.

Strange how it came on so suddenly.

Thanks for the tips/ ideas

Darren