My Disco is just about back to normal after my accident, but I'm still concerned about the steering. Can't seem to pinpoint the problem yet, but I think it may be related to the tow truck service and not the impact of the accident itself. My ARB bumper was pushed into the front wheels during the accident, which were turned at an angle. The tow truck operator, in order to pull the Disco onto his flatbed, tried yanking the wheel aggressively in order to straighten the tires out--which was unsuccessful.

My LR mechanic has driven the vehicle and agreed that the steering was "loose" -- more play than normal in the wheel. But he wasn't sure where the problem could be, as his cursory check revealed everything in the steering column to be "tight." There is no apparent physical damage from the front-end impact to my OME steering damper or anything else related to the steering--which is what makes me think the "loose" feeling may be related to the tow truck operator trying to force the tires free with the wheel.

My truck is headed back to the mechanic who did the original insurance repair work to take a look at this issue and a few smaller outstanding items, but I'm not sure they know where to go with this.

Any thoughts?

 

Your steering box wasdamaged from the impact and now the gears have to much play.
If the tow driver pulled the wheel with his hands there is no way he did any damage. If he pulled them with the winch then maybe.
I am betting a new steering box will fix the problem.

 

Did you have to replace any steering or suspension components due to the accident, if so what?I know you stated your LR mechanic checked the steering and everything was tight.It's highly unlikely (if at all possible) someone candamage a steering component by trying to force it to turn with the steering wheel. It's possible to breakthecolumn, but everything after thecolumn is pretty robust made out of thick metal. Especially on a LR.

What about your alignment, was it checked or re-adjusted after the accidet.Incorrect alignment angles can effect steering feel, especially caster.

 

The best thing for you to due is call the insurance adjuster, tell what is going on and that there is still a problem. Let the shop and the insurance company work it out.