Steering 'funny'

[Apache]

I noticed today whilst sitting in the truck waiting for the kids to tire themselves out in the park that when the engine is stopped, I have a small amount of play in the steering wheel. (Around half to 3/4")

It's not the idler - I changed that recently, and when I take a look underneath, nothing is moving when I got Vicki to move the steering.

However, when I start the engine, there is no play, and merely that 'springiness' that results from biggish MT tyres.

Anyone care to explain? (and tell me if it's serious or not?)

[BUSHWHACKER]

Same here.

[Apache]

Same here.

I figured it may be normal-ish. It would only really be an issue if it happened when the power steering pump was running. Before I changed my idler, it was like the steering wheel was connected to the wheels via elastic bands - rather like a Peugeot 205 gearbox actually!

[mooter]

surely that's just a symptom of the power steering? engine off = no power = steering funny. engine on = power = responsiveness.

no?

[Apache]

No.

I haven't noticed this free play with any other power steering cars I've had, which then disappears when the power steering is operational. Mind you, the Surf steering seems to work in a different way to all the other cars I've had.

Anyway, it doesn't seem to have caused any screams of alarm from anyone.

[mooter]

Aaaaaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrrggggg gggggggggggghhhhhhhhhh!!!

ALARM ALARM ALARM!