Hello, can some people be real descriptive and explain what is meant by play in the steering wheel and/or loose steering. What does this mean, that when you turn the wheel it feels real loose and like the wheels are not catching?
You're correct. Play means the amount of turn that can be made without the wheels changing direction. It's often referred to as loose steering. Watch any old black and white film and when they drive the actor really moves the wheel a lot when the car is going straight. Older cars had a lot of play, (although this was exaggerated for effect) but it's the idea that counts. Most modern cars with power steering won't have this problem so much, but larger vehicles often do. (Drive buses as part of my job).
It's the responsive action between the steering wheel and the actual pivot movement of the wheel. Some cars have a tight response while others are loose. The tolerance in makes and models can differ greatly. A high performance vehicle like a Ferrari or Lamborghini is going to have a much tighter reponse then a Camry or a Buick. The way you describe it is correct. If it seems inconsistant in the loosness or unresponsive enough to make you feel there is something wrong, have it checked out.
Play in the steering wheel can be described as how many degrees the steering wheel can be turned in either direction until the wheels move in direct correlation with the steering wheel input. Generally if there is any free play in the wheel, it is indicative of worn or damaged steering components. A certain amount of play is not necessarily dangerous but if excessive play is in the wheel it should be inspected by a qualified person. Basically if you can turn the wheel more than 1/8th of a turn and the vehicle is still going in a straight line, this, in my opinion would be excessive.
