LJ78 Steering Column Clang (on potholes)

[tiresandals]

I haven't torn into the steering column yet. I wanted to see if this is a common problem that other LJ78 owners have experienced.

Every time I hit a moderate bump or pothole in the road there is a loud clang noise and vibration that seems to be coming from the steering column. I've ordered new shocks / springs / bushings etc that I plan to install in a few weeks. Do you think that will take care of it? Or have you found something loose in the steering column.

 

[AirheadNut]

I haven't experienced that on either of the LJ78's I've had, but I would recommend getting underneath and doing a thorough inspection for loose and worn steering and suspension components. Is there a lot of play in your steering?

 

[tiresandals]

The steering doesn't have excessive play. You know your post reminded me of a 2006 Toyota Scion that did a similar thing. I turned out to be the rubber stabilizer / sway bar bushings were basically missing so the bar would just bounce around. Once I replaced the bushings it was good as new. I'll take a look. Thanks!

 

[oldblue]

My KZJ71 made this noise but only when hubs locked and in 4WD.

 

[relaxedcruiser]

Hi there,
check all the relevant components of the steering / suspension as advised above - particulary the panhard rod bushes could be worn or the bolt(s) holding it not tight enough - although not a steering part they will directly counter all the force you or the road is applying to the steering system.
Although more of a rattling one I chased a very annoying steering related noise for a while too, this turned out to be the sliding part of the shaft which links the steering column with the steering box.
What cured it was greasing it with sticky red lucas grease - and its still fine after approx. 50K kilometer I have covered since. So if you can feel ANY even so little play in it it may pay to "service" that one.

 

[JuanJ]

Hello,

A little bit of grease in the steering column's universal joints can help as well.





Juan

 

[tiresandals]

As it turned out the problem was the horn button / panel on the steering wheel. It was only anchored on the top. It must have been removed and only partially screwed down by a previous owner... Stabilizer bar grommets / bushings were in great condition, better than my '06 Scion w/ 110k miles.