Steering Rattle
 

I did a search, but pretty much came up empty or machines that didn't apply.

My problem is I have a steering rattle that seems to be up by the steering wheel. Steering is tight though. Pressing down or pulling up while it's rattling makes no difference at all. I figure it's a bushing somewhere. Does anyone have any idea what's up with it? Short of the rattle it's tight.

I also have a squeak I can't find in the rear springs or perches. I guess I could run that by you as well.

Re: Steering Rattle
 

Is the rattle a bad wheel bearing?

Re: Steering Rattle
 

I know what you mean about the steering wheel rattle. It seems to be common with most of the EZGO's I have driven but I dont know why it happens. I notice the rattle more on gravel driveways. Maybe it is the bushing at the top of the steering shaft?

Re: Steering Rattle
 

It's in the steering shaft. Not the cart itself. It might be a top bearing in the shaft. Maybe I'll remove it and see what's going on. AUgh...

Re: Steering Rattle
 

There could be 1 of 2 things. First there is a bushing at the top of the steering shaft that could be warn out, this is probably the issue.

Second, now i know you said that you believe its in the steering and not the cart. Here is one thing to check. put a jack in the middle of the front axle and jack it up untill the wheels are off the ground. The grab the wheel and try and move it up and down. If there is any play in the pivot spindle tube, it will cause a clunk when you go over bumps and rough terrain all the time, my electric used to do it.

Re: Steering Rattle
 

Nah...you can really tell to listen to it that it's in the column itself. Sounds like metal on metal at the top of the tube. It's a higher pitched rattle too. Not a clunk coming from a spindle, wheel bearing, shock, ect. I think you're right. It's in the top of the column. Not sure how to fix it though. Wonder if the bushing comes out. I could turn down a replacement.

Re: Steering Rattle
 

Pull the steering wheel off and the bushing will be starring you right in the face. :thumbup:

This is what yours will look like.
http://southerncustomcarts.com/cart/images/5589.gif

Re: Steering Rattle
 

It's noise from the steering assembly itself that is being amplified by the hollow steering column. Go get some pipe insulation (small), take off your steering wheel, remove the upper 'bearing' and slip the foam insulation tube into the column and around the steering shaft.

This is only something needed for the newer style carts with axle mounted steering - 2001 1/2 and up...

There's your freebie from MMT for this month:thumbup:

Re: Steering Rattle
 

$50 says it's that bushing...I'll look at it tonight maybe.
Maybe give that foam a try too.

THANKS!!

Re: Steering Rattle
 

OK. After further review...I don't think it's in the bushing. I think it's play in the gear set traveling up the column. Bought this cart used, but looking at the rack and pinion there's a plate on the bottom with two bolts. It's leaked fluid of some sort from there. Thoughts?