The Triumph Dolomite Club - Discussion Forum

Many of you have probably already experienced this type of thing happening, but I thought I'd just show you mine on video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=71iogDe5e4g

Couldn't believe the amount of play in the steering UJ, I'm going to upgrade it to a 'Lotus Elan' solid type UJ

Cheers

Steve

Hi Steve, it's not actually a universal joint, it's a knuckle joint designed to absorb vibrations and backlash from the steering.

This is very common, oil and gunk simply degrades the rubber bushes. Depending on the type of joint that you have the bushes can be replaced, see my restoration thread here. Mine have torx key bolts so I carefully stripped it, cleaned it all up, reassembled with polybushes and loctite thread retainer (the stuff that you need to heat to remove the bolts) and knocked the ends over for good measure.

It is my opinion that this joint is important as it supports the other universal joint, as the joint is straight there is no reason for a universal joint here, by adding another UJ in there could be the risk of both joints failing due to lack of support.

Steve, I have done what James has also done and that is I have replaced the rubber bushes with poly ones, sourced in my case from a local Lotus Elan restoration specialist. Elans also have a similar knuckle joint, for as you may be aware, the Elan used all Triumph parts for the steering and some of the front suspension.

It would pay also to check the universal joint at the top of that intermediate shaft to which the knuckle joint is attached for if there is any evidence of that universal binding or not turning freely this will also cause the steering to “rattle”.

Robert