Steering play - Pitman arm or center tie-rod?

[bizz]

Hi all,

It's been about 5 years since i've visited - I have just dusted off the E12! Hope everyone is well.

I have isolated a small amount of play in the steering where the center tie rod meets the Pitman arm



I assume that it's more likely that the center tie rod would need replacing, however I also noticed that I couldn't see parts 10/11 (dust cap, washer) on my current assembly. Are they likely to affect performance of this joint? i'll order them regardless - hoping to hear if anyone's experienced issues at this point?

Thanks,
Ben

[Mike W.]

If you have play at that joint, yes, it would be the center tie rod, and they are something of a weak link.

I believe the other parts, dust boot etc, have always been included when I've replaced the center tie rod. Always bought aftermarket so BMW may not include them.

[bizz]

Thanks Mike

[tlake]

Hi all,

It's been about 5 years since i've visited - I have just dusted off the E12! Hope everyone is well.

I have isolated a small amount of play in the steering where the center tie rod meets the Pitman arm



I assume that it's more likely that the center tie rod would need replacing, however I also noticed that I couldn't see parts 10/11 (dust cap, washer) on my current assembly. Are they likely to affect performance of this joint? i'll order them regardless - hoping to hear if anyone's experienced issues at this point?

Thanks,
Ben

Welcome back I might be wrong on this, but were you doing a manual 5 speed conversion on your car Maybe someone else.