Steering pinch bolt coming loose

July 10, 2022, 07:06:33 AM

Has anyone else had/have this issue?
Many years ago I noticed that the steering felt loose around the straight ahead position. The rack had been replaced by a reconditioned unit which hadn't been on the car long. It felt like I was driving my old 60s Beetle. I took the car to a specialist who didn't fix it then found the steering pinch bolt was loose and tightened it myself.
Wind forward a few years and I decided to replace the steering lock due to slight lateral play. That replaced what was a very minor "lumpyness" became an annoying click.Thought it as the ignition lock bearing but yesterday found that tightening the pinch bolt a bit has removed the click.
I should have really removed/cleaned the bolt and re-installed with some thread lock but it is REALLY awkward/PitA to get to so I'll get someone to do it for me.
I don't think it is a special bolt (it is high tensile) but it is NLA at VW.

Re: Steering pinch bolt coming loose

Reply #1 – July 10, 2022, 07:41:31 AM

Measure screw, check spec, get one off eBay. Fit with thread lock?
Never had this issue myself. The female thread is good?

Re: Steering pinch bolt coming loose

Reply #2 – July 10, 2022, 08:45:56 AM

Hi Phil.
I'd do it myself but using axle stands on the drive and really limited access it's a sh1t job.
I didn't notice a nut on the end of the bolt but this vid indicates there is one.
Watch from 6.30
Pinch Bolt Removal
Keeping that rubber cover out of the way whilst grappling with the pinch bolt laid on my side was no fun.

Re: Steering pinch bolt coming loose

Reply #3 – July 10, 2022, 02:44:12 PM

Stick a high tensile locking nut on it, the type that are distorted to lock.

Nightmare job on your back under the car though. Torqued mine up when the engine was out.