Replaced rack n pinion, now steering wheel has side to side play

[Bhobbs]

I replaced the rack and pinion on my 98 Z28 because it was leaking fluid and after getting it aligned, the steering wheel has some side to side play in it. I can turn the wheel a few degrees to each side without the wheels of the car turning. Is there an adjustment I need to make or should it go back to the shop where I had it aligned?

[Bhobbs]

Bumping this back up. Still having issues with the steering.

[yotaman96]

Make sure the steering shaft bolt is tight.

[Edwin320]

Check the condition of the rag joint:

http://www.jegs.com/i/Dorman/326/310...FYN0OgodxDEA8A

(that isn't the one for your car, but you have something similar)

and check the condition of the tie rod ends. Racks usually come with inner tie rods but the outers are usually re-used. If all that checks out, make sure your steering column isn't the source of the play.

[Bhobbs]

Originally Posted by yotaman96

Make sure the steering shaft bolt is tight.

Originally Posted by Edwin320

Check the condition of the rag joint:

http://www.jegs.com/i/Dorman/326/310...FYN0OgodxDEA8A

(that isn't the one for your car, but you have something similar)

and check the condition of the tie rod ends. Racks usually come with inner tie rods but the outers are usually re-used. If all that checks out, make sure your steering column isn't the source of the play.

Thanks. I'll check both this weekend. Didn't have a chance to jack it up and take a look yet. Hopefully I don't have to change out the rack and pinion.

It's been a while since I changed it but I think the replacement came with new outer tie rods.