Steering vibration when hitting bumps/ potholes

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GilesHarrison

Member
Posts
10
Location
Cumbria
Hi all.

I'm pretty new to Defenders and I'm slowly sorting through issues with my 1995 110csw 300tdi.

Problem is vibrations through the steering wheel. Can occur at any road speed over about 20mph but only when hitting a pot hole or bump or something. Vibrations tend to last about 5 seconds after the impact. On a smooth surface, all is fine at any speed.

I've recently replaced the track rod ends and steering drop arm ball joint as these had play in them. I was hoping this would have sorted things but it hasn't.

Any suggestions about where I should look next? I was wondering about the panhard rod - there's no obvious play here but it seems logical.

Thanks you.
 
Probably panhard rod bushes as a starting point. Put a crowbar on it and check for any movement.
 
Thanks for the replies. It's been wet all day so I didn't fancy lying under it. I'll check Panhard rod bushes first. Might just replace them anyway seeing as they're cheap.

Steering column UJs 'look' ok to me but they are clearly old.

I've never checked swivel preload. Don't think I've got anything to measure that with.

Thanks again. I'll report back soon.
 
I would second swivel preload, as l had exactly the same issue with my 110 TD5.
Setting the preload is a fairly involved process, mine was well out of tolerance when checked by a specialist.
Resetting it cured the fault completely.

Also check that the front dampers are OK.
 
Swivel preload is easy enough to do, only special tool will be to go and buy a cheap spring balance from a fishing tackle shop.
 
With the steering rods disconnected you will know if the swivel preload is wrong without a gauge. It should be quite stiff with the swivel seal in place. Lovely and smooth and easy to move - is wrong.
 
Another thing that happens is that the swivel bearings don't become loose exactly, but they can develop a notch where the rollers most usually sit in the bearing shells. The biggest improvement to my handling was when I renewed the bearings top and bottom on both sides.
 
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