1990 Marathon Loose Steering

[Trippin1190]

Please be patient, I’m new to the golf cart world and am learning as I go.

We recently bought a 1990 Marathon that I’m in the process of restoring. So far, I have rebuilt the battery frame, replaced all the wiring, upgraded the springs, added a rear seat, replaced wheels and tires, new lighting, on and on. The cart runs fine and the batteries are just over a year old. We have not lifted the cart and not sure we will.

I have a problem with the steering feels very loose, as I can turn the wheel 1/4 to 1/2 a turn before the front tires turn. I have checked the tie rod ends, the front end bearings and bushings. I think the problem is in the steering box and rack. Before is spend more $$$, does anyone have any suggestions or ideas how to fix this problem?

[crash12888]

Nothing to tighten if it's that loose, good thing is the rack rail and pinion gear or the complete assembly are still available.

[bronsonj]

first thing to do is grease the front end. That absolutely will help. It may not fix it but it will absolutely help. I had an 84 Marathon and made a huge difference in steering.

You may have worn rack and pinion issues and/or kingpins that are worn.

But start with the grease.

[Capt. Lenny]

Check the intermediate shaft also, that's the connecting shaft with the 2 universal joints. Mine had play in it but not as much as yours and I found one of the u-joints was bad. I agree with bronsonj also, may a badly worn rack.