Clunking In Steering Column

[razorboy]

Hey Guys,

I had noticed some notchy sounds and feeling in my steering. It was squeaking too so while I was replacing my intake elbow (which did not solve my whistling problem), I hit the lower shaft (with the dual u-joints) with some WD40 just to see if it would stop the squeaking and it did BUT the steering is now more clunky. I think the u-joints are worn in the lower column. Going to do more looking at this today but while I am on this, how difficult is it to get that lower shaft out?

I see what appears to be a set of torx bolts, one at the top and one at the bottom. Does loosening these off allow me to get the shaft off or is it just the beginning of misery working this shaft off the column?

I can tell you that replacing that intake elbow was no easy task. Very frustrating trying to get to the hose clamps. Getting it off wasn't a big deal but getting your hands wrapped around the bottom of the elbow to tighten the clamps was pretty frustrating. Even more so when I found no cracks in the one I had removed and the whistling remained. Not sure where its coming from yet.

[x5Alpine]

Yes, I had the exact same problem with my wheel and it also had some play in it. I replaced the U-joint and its as good as new now.

[razorboy]

Originally Posted by x5Alpine

Yes, I had the exact same problem with my wheel and it also had some play in it. I replaced the U-joint and its as good as new now.

Did you replace it yourself or have a shop do it for you?

Apparently, its the same shaft all the way up to 2006 so I think I will find a 2006 version

Cheers
Bernie

[x5Alpine]

I had Bavarian Auto haus here in reno nv do it. BTW, if you ever get the chance, they seriously do amazing work.