ZF steering rack question

[mac73s]

This rack (10/69 build code) is new to me and it turns smoothly lock-to-lock, but the yoke (?) where the steering rod attaches has 'free play' of 1/4" before any movement of the rack either left or right. I'm guessing this free play is not normal. Is there an internal adjustment or is something likely worn? I bought the rack used and it is returnable but I wanted to get some thoughts. I've never taken a rack apart but up for the challenge if necessary. Thank you

[1969911T]

I rebuilt my 69 several years ago. Free play like that is not normal. Since the rubber isolator is not attached, I assume the free play is when turning the flange. Unless a bearing is completely gone, it is probably the nylon “puck” that is inside the plate (if I remember correctly)on the left side of your pic. My puck was severely worn

I mistakenly said right side, I meant left side. Sorry
Steve

[mac73s]

I rebuilt my 69 several years ago. Free play like that is not normal. Since the rubber isolator is not attached, I assume the free play is when turning the flange. Unless a bearing is completely gone, it is probably the nylon “puck” that is inside the plate (if I remember correctly)on the right side of your pic. My puck was severely worn

Thank you for your response. Yes, the rubber isolator is new and the free play is at the flange. Do you mean the plate on the LEFT side of my photo? I did take that plate off of the original steering rack and only find a very large toothed disc that I can see is threaded. Would the 'puck' be behind that? Have no idea what kind of tool for unscrewing it? I have an early shop manual with a supplement but the diagram of the rack in it is not representative of either of my racks...seems to be an earlier (or later?) unit. My original rack is a 1/70 build and is identical the 10/69 one I just bought.

[TheTorch]

Is the free play only in the central position, or the same when turned most of the way to the left or right?

[mac73s]

Is the free play only in the central position, or the same when turned most of the way to the left or right?

The free play exists no matter what position the rack is in...no difference when centered or any other position. Thank you.

[mathieulecomte]

There is a plastic 'puck' that pushes on the rack (under the plate with the two bolts on the left of your picture) - if this plastic puck is old and reduced thickness because of years of use, it could prevent from having the right pressure and may induce play..

This thread will show you internals and some info too
https://www.early911sregistry.org/fo...rack-refurbish

[mac73s]

There is a plastic 'puck' that pushes on the rack (under the plate with the two bolts on the left of your picture) - if this plastic puck is old and reduced thickness because of years of use, it could prevent from having the right pressure and may induce play..

This thread will show you internals and some info too
https://www.early911sregistry.org/fo...rack-refurbish

Thank you for your response. I admit to not understanding where is 'puck' is. I took that cover off from my original steering rack and the only thing facing me as that large multi-toothed piece. So, does the puck sit behind that, and if so, what is used to remove that whatever-it-is-called toothed piece? I have enjoyed every bit of this restoration but I admit this whole steering rack thing is perplexing to me.

[TheTorch]

The free play exists no matter what position the rack is in...no difference when centered or any other position. Thank you.

ok. Then it's unlikely to be rack or pinion wear, which tends to center around the middle (most used) position.

[mac73s]

ok. Then it's unlikely to be rack or pinion wear, which tends to center around the middle (most used) position.

Happy to report that the problem is fixed...just needed adjustment of the multi-toothed adjusting disc that sits behind the round plate held on by two 8mm bolts. Interestingly, that cover also serves as the tool needed to engage the 'teeth' on the disc and easily adjusted to decrease or increase pressure on the internal puck. So relieved to have this concern behind me thanks to a friend who is extremely accomplished 356 and early 911 tech.