Wandering Defender

[Dry Rot]

I've had a problem with my 2005 Td5 Defender. The symptoms are similar to low tyre pressure, in fact I was so convinced I had a slow puncture that I got the local tyre dealer to removed all the wheels and water check each for punctures. Nothing! But when it had an MOT I got an advisory that the lower steering UJ needed replacing.

Well, the UJs are fine but I found the lower male connector at the end of the steering shaft was like this (see photo). Just to check with the wise, I assume it's not meant to be like that and it is badly worn? The second picture is of the lower UJ, just in case it is relevant. Can some clever person please confirm it's wear before I start stripping down what might not need stripping down after all? Thanks in advance.

 

[Tractortech]

Now Then..
Were all the pinch bolts tight in the steering universal joint where it fits on the splined shaft??

 

[Exfarmer]

Needs the rubber bushes replaced. Also are the tyres going out of shape. Used to be big problem with some Michelin

 

[Dry Rot]

So far as I recall. They were not easy to undo. Crow bar and 14lb hammer to get the shaft removed.

So far, it looks like a replacement worm gear is £72 plus labour in renovating the box plus labour in removing/replacing the unit on the vehicle, plus shipping.

An exchange unit steering box is about £300 plus some shipping (but won't post to Scotland, ignorant barstewards).

Might find a used one off a vehicle dismantler.

I wonder what the Chinese have to offer?

 

[zero]

Ours started going wayward on the road but a new set of radius arm bushes settled it down.

 

[Highland Mule]

So far as I recall. They were not easy to undo. Crow bar and 14lb hammer to get the shaft removed.

So far, it looks like a replacement worm gear is £72 plus labour in renovating the box plus labour in removing/replacing the unit on the vehicle, plus shipping.

An exchange unit steering box is about £300 plus some shipping (but won't post to Scotland, ignorant barstewards).

Might find a used one off a vehicle dismantler.

I wonder what the Chinese have to offer?

If someone does exchange units, I would imagine that Dingbro would be able to facilitate it.

 

[Dry Rot]

I've had some good advice of a Land Rover forum. The verdict seems to be that someone did not assemble it correctly before I bought it, but that must be 10 years ago at least!

 

[Abacus]

I had something similar it was the tiye rod bush

 

[Dry Rot]

Sorted now. Thanks for the replies.

 

[Tubbylew]

Radius arm bushes will give a knock, when they've been done, the panhard rod bushes will make it seem as if the truck is going to throw you over a hedge or oncoming traffic, ask me how I know.