Rattling steering wheel when maneuvering

[AlpineCruiser]

Hi,

since some time I figured out an odd behavior of my '81 911 SC.

In case of maneuvering (no matter if moving front- or backwards) – if the steering wheel is completely turned to one side, a very recognizable rattling/bouncing(?) comes up from the front axle. If driving, means straight forward or in curves, it doesn't happen.

Any idea?

Thanks a lot and greetings from Bavaria
Marc

[Jose_JGC]

My guess is that one or both front tires are rubbing the fender(s).

[Oh Haha]

Originally Posted by Jose_JGC

My guess is that one or both front tires are rubbing the fender(s).

I agree. Rubbing can occur on the INSIDE of the fender well as much as the fender lip. Pull one or both fronts and check for wear pattern where the tire made contact. If this is the issue it should be obvious.

What size tire/wheel on the front? What I the ride height? Is this something new?

[AlpineCruiser]

Hi,

thanks for your replies – ill check the tires this weekend.

Hmmm ... but I remember from the very past in case of my old Oval Volkswagen bug that a contact of turning Tires with fenders or other parts do also come with an abrading noise and that such a contact of tires does not end in a stuttering but more rubbing effect.

But .... Ill check and keep you informed.

Best regards
Marc

[matt f]

Marc,

Is there any "play" or "slop" in response to input to the steering wheel?

Place the steering wheel in the "neutral" position. Tires would be pointing forward so that car goes in a straight line.
Pull forward slowly and turn the steering wheel.
Is there input to the steering wheel that doesn't translate to the tires turning the car?

If so, even input in small amounts, you may want to investigate the steering rack.
There are 2 universal joints in the rack that may need replacing.
Not a big deal and not terribly expensive.

Matt

[BER]

Marc,

Gruss Gott.

Another though to your steering issue is a possible failed steering column support bushing. When sitting stationary with wheels straight ahead, can you feel "play" in the steering wheel when you move the steering wheel?

Check out Pelican part# PEL-ML-STR for more information.

Best Regards, Bruce

[AlpineCruiser]

Hi,

at the weekend I did the tests you mentioned.

Well, there's no "play" or "slop" when turning the steering wheel no matter from what position. The steering wheel does directly translate to the tires a all positions. Also I tried to pull the steering wheel, but I can't pull as there's also no "play" or "sploop".

I figured to that this odd rattling/bouncing also appears if just turning the steering wheel by approx. 2/3 of whats possible.

Hmmmm ... what else could be the guilty?

Thanks for your help! :-)

[Oh Haha]

I think an inspection of the front suspension pieces are in order now.

If possible, get the care in the air(safely, of course) and have a helper move the steering wheel. Check all of the suspension bits for tightness. Wheels bearings generally groan when driving straight but check them while in there. They are easy to adjust if you find they have play.

Let us know when you have found(or not) the issue.

[DRACO A5OG]

+1 check your front wheel bearings, if loose and on a turn the bearings will rumble.

[wayner]

1) Are the front wheels stock or have they been replaced?
2) If so do they have the same offset and width as stock?
3) If not the scrub radius may be what is causing the tire to hop or skip when turning slowly such as in a tight parking lot.