1997 850 base sticky steering wheel

coolfische · Post by **coolfische** » 15 Jan 2009, 17:46

So this has been around for a while and its starting to annoy me. When I turn the wheel gradually, like an on ramp or off ramp of a highway or around curvy back roads my steering wheel feels sticky. Almost like it resists turning and then gives in and goes. Like it catches on something. I read a post that said knuckle mount behind the firewall, or something along those lines, what is a "knuckle". If anyone could help, please do. Also if you know how much I might be looking at for a repair bill. Also am I at a big risk by driving it right now?

Anything will help

Also whoever replied to my last post about trying a higher mileage oil, thanks...it completely took care of the oil burning problem on my older rig.

larryh · Post by **larryh** » 15 Jan 2009, 18:03

That sounds very dangerous....and hard to diagnose over the internet. I would suggest having a good indy volvo shop check it ASAP.

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 15 Jan 2009, 19:06

There is a U-joint at the base of the steering column shaft that mates with the rack where there may be a problem. It could also be a problem with the rack itself. If it is really hanging up badly, like larryh said, deal with it sooner rather than later.

I still have nightmares about going around a corner in my AMX when I was a teenager when the steering wheel came off in my hands. I was trying to remove it without a puller and it refused to come off and I had not replaced the nut. Driving a car without the ability to steer is a bad thing. I was at least able to mash the steering wheel back on and not wreck but it scared the crap out of me.

...Lee

coolfische · Post by **coolfische** » 17 Jan 2009, 16:56

thanks for the comments....it doesn't hang up badly. Just feels sticky....if that makes sense. I know ball joints, tie rods, etc are all fine. I'm getting it looked at hopefully this week by my local guy. Just figured I'd try to get some idea of what it could be before I take it in.

I'll post again with the verdict.

Craigd2599 · Post by **Craigd2599** » 18 Jan 2009, 03:36

Did you check the fluid? Try some Lucas additive. That stuff is genius.

Hey, I had an AMX too.

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 18 Jan 2009, 06:30

Hey, I had an AMX too.

I've been watching the Barrett-Jackson auctions this weekend, I really wish still had it. It was a total beater but it was a '69 with a 390. Wicked fast but don't try to turn or stop.

...Lee

Craigd2599 · Post by **Craigd2599** » 18 Jan 2009, 06:33

I had a 1971 with a 304 but I swapped in a SBC 327. Pushed about 450 hP. I loved the lines of those cars.

wolfspiritky · Post by **wolfspiritky** » 18 Jan 2009, 10:53

There is an AMX for sale about 3 miles down the road from me....needs restoration.