Hi Everyone,

I know that some vehicles come equipped with a telescoping steering wheel in case of a crash so that the wheel collapses on itself and doesn’t injure the driver. Does anyone know if this is the case for the discovery one? Currently working on some sloppy steering and I’m trying to rule everything out before I replace the steering box.

 

the D1 steering wheel will adjust up and down but not telescoping

 

I don’t mean an adjustment for driving comfort, I mean as a safety feature.

 

I believe the term for that is “collapsible” steering column.

 

It’s pretty much just an aluminum pole with links on either end, nothing collapsible about it I can tell. That’s the portion under the hood with the heat cover buttoned over it. The bolts on either end can be tightened if there’s play.

Being a collapsible telescope or not, that seems to be the last thing I would be paying attention to when trying to diagnose steering trouble!

Have you looked at the reservoir fluid level, hoses, P/S box for leaks? Not to mention the drag link ball joints, and other steering components that may be bad.

 

Collapsible columns have been mandated on US-spec vehicles since the 60s/70s. But I’d agree - I’d be looking at other components before tearing into the steering column assembly.

Link below to I-Car article regarding the collapsible design

https://rts.i-car.com/collision-repair-news/what-s-in-a-steering-column-energy-absorbing-column.html

 

they have airbags not collapsable steering wheels

 

ahhh so the airbag goes off right before the steering wheel goes through your chest from a front impact

 

The only reason I ask is because I have explored everything, new: drag links, drag rods (tie rods), tightening adjustments made to steering box, u joints of steering box seem tight without play. Not sure what else could be considered before the actual steering box itself.

 

There's a good video out there about troubleshooting the steering. I think it's by Bearmach and involves a mechanic with a helper to rock the steering wheel. That helps pinpoint the problem area(s). Trailfitter's Toolbox Videos, Basic Steering Checks.

The steering box is adjustable to minimize play when pointed straight ahead. How are the hubs? Mine (190k and 175k) required a lot of work (new bearings and pre-load shims for example).


Check this out.