C1 steering play

[Donald H.]

I've finished restoration of my 1960 and have been driving it some. This is my first vintage corvette and I know there will always be some play in the steering. Can some of you long time C1 drivers give me an idea of what should be expected. I rebuilt the steering gear with all new parts and set it according to the ST-12.

Right now I have some play, but not sure it is in the acceptable range. Looking at my steering wheel, one of the spokes is at about 10 o'clock and I can turn it to about 11 o'clock before the play is taken up. Also, I'm pretty sure the play is in the gear box as the pitman arm does not move while the steering wheel is being turned through the play area.

Thanks,

Don

[Thomas H.]

Re: C1 steering play

Don,

Mine is about the same. I have rebuilt all of the steering and set the box per the ST12 (as best I could....) I'd like to hear other, more experienced C1 owners thoughts also.

The old cars had a fair amount of steering play. I can remember as a kid watching my dad drive our Galaxy 500 down the freeway and swear he was moving the steering wheel several inches back and forth as the car went straight down the road. That much steering input to my Z06 would get me through a slalom course!

Tom

[Bruce B.]

Re: C1 steering play

That much play is common.
Some are much looser.

[Bill M.]

Re: C1 steering play

I rebuilt the entire steering system in my '59 (in 1976 using parts from the dealer). It has been driven very little since then. I just measured 1/4 inch of play at the steering wheel (unloaded play measured at the outer diameter of the wheel).

[Richard H.]

Re: C1 steering play

Just completed assembling my 1958 after 12 years. Steering box is as I received it, no rebuild, and it has about 1" play; functions properly and smoothly.

[Terry D.]

Re: C1 steering play

Try to remember you are dealing with 1940"s technology, a little play is common and there is no precise amount