Steering

[Norton]

Hi. 1973 S3 power steering.
The steering on my car is somewhat “vague”. Kind of unpresise, car sometimes start to weer very slightly right or left and need correction. I know this may come from a number of reasons, but if anyone know of a specific reason would like to know as a starting point. Everything is standard parts.

Also know this is an old car and cannot be compared to a modern car. But I had another S3 -71, this was much more precise and “tight” in the steering.
Thanks.
Harald.

[Norton]

Hi.
Not much response on my post, but I try again.
Think the veering is becoming worse. Checked the service manual which I should have done last year.
Manual says:
Steering veering to left or right, ( mine is veering to left AND right )
Cause: steering unit out of trim.
Cure: replace valve and pinion assembly.

Regarding control valve and pinion service manual states:
«no adjustments or repair is permissible»
Does that mean it is actually possible to adjust or repair? ( But Jaguar don’t like you to do it ).
If so, anyone have any knowledge of how to adjust or repair?

Thanks, Harald.

[mgcjag]

Worth contacting Kiley Clinton...they are very helpefull...Steve https://www.steering-racks.co.uk/

[bitsobrits]

Have you inspected the steering rack mounts to ensure they are tickety boo?

[Norton]

Hi thanks.
I am checking out Kiley Clinton. And just checked the steering rack mounts and everything is in order.
Tyre pressure is checked, tires are 215/70 15 which, as I understand are the most used ones nowdays. They are evenly worn and look fine. Toe in are checked. Have tried to increase toe in, no difference. Set back to correct and double checked. So if I have done everything right and according to service manual, I’m down to control valve and pinion. And if its possible to adjust / repair by an amateur. Kiley Clinton can certainly do!
Harald

[andrewh]

I imagine your tyres are somewhat of the problem in that they are wider than the original specification, which from memory should equate to a 205. Of course the steering rack may well be at fault , but I would also think a full steering geometry check would be worthwhile. As you refer to some more toe in may be required but also the camber maybe incorrect. Let us know what you find. One additional slightly left field idea is how is the back end? E type are known to steer from the rear if the various bushes are worn especially on the radius arms.

[Norton]

Thanks for all tips, and reminding me of the back end. Going to check that too, forgot while concentrated on front end.
Had another S3 ( auto ) some years back, it had same tyre dimension and that one was very tight and presise in steering.
Rechecked rack mountings, and think it is as it should be. Rubber mounted but very tight.
Have found a tiny slack in the rack ball joint on LH side. ( ball on end of rack ). Also RH wheel bearing needs adjusting, a little play there. Sort that out next. But can these two items cause the amount of veering?
Also going to check all other ball joints and bushings

Back to the control valve and pinion. Had a chat with an expert in Trondheim Norway. Mobeck, he is rebuilding / modifying XJ, XJS stering racks ( among other Jag things ), he could not imagine how control valve and pinion could cause veering. Anyway, service manual says so.

Going to post what I find out!
Harald.