This coupling is found cushioned between the steering connecting shaft and steering gear unit. It is located just to the right of the off side radiator support bracket on RHD vehicle and just above horn.
In time the rubber coupling cracks, splits and swells. A genuine VW replacement can be purchased for around £8-10.
Replacing is clearly documented in Haynes manual Chapter 9.12. Here's additional findings from an average DIY'er.
Some models have four bolts. Later versions have two bolts and two factory rivets. My camper had the latter, meaning removal of flexible coupling and relay unit clamp.
Disconnect battery.
Well soaked in Plusgas and splines marked with tippex
Loosen pinch bolt and two securing bolts and remove coupling with clamp. Put the connecting rod to one side. Once apart DO NOT turn steering wheel.
Running a cutting blade (on angle grinder) between clamp and rubber coupling will release the two factory rivets. Now knock each rivet out with a drift. Or press out in a vice using a small bolt and correct size socket.
Old coupling in very poor condition
Attach new coupling with appropriate length M8 bolts, washers either side and nylock nuts. Torque to spec.
Lining up tippex marks replace pinch clamp with new coupling on to relay unit and add bolt and nut. But do not fully tighten. Reconnect shaft with the two bolts and nuts with washers. Tighten to spec. Finally tighten pinch bolt to spec. Both 20 nm.
Direction of nuts and bolts are purely down to ease of access and spanners
Manual says always use new self- locking bolts.
Access is tight. I did it without raising vehicle though. Disconnecting horn bulb helps.
Hope it helps.
Regards
Stuart
Replacing Flexible Coupling At Steering Relay Unit.
Moderators: User administrators, Moderators
Replacing Flexible Coupling At Steering Relay Unit.
MaxStu
1989 DJ 2.1 Auto Leisuredrive rusty bucket.
1987 DG1.9 LPG Auto Autosleeper
"Blissfully happy in your presence".
1989 DJ 2.1 Auto Leisuredrive rusty bucket.
1987 DG1.9 LPG Auto Autosleeper
"Blissfully happy in your presence".
-
- Registered user
- Posts: 296
- Joined: 08 Jul 2014, 09:23
- 80-90 Mem No: 13990
- Location: 10 miles south of Bristol
Re: Replacing Flexible Coupling At Steering Relay Unit.
Is there now any noticeable improvement/difference?
Re: Replacing Flexible Coupling At Steering Relay Unit.
PeteandNikki wrote:Is there now any noticeable improvement/difference?
No idea..in self isolation
However, just seeing how badly deteriorated the old was, its a bit of bored preventative maintenance.
MaxStu
1989 DJ 2.1 Auto Leisuredrive rusty bucket.
1987 DG1.9 LPG Auto Autosleeper
"Blissfully happy in your presence".
1989 DJ 2.1 Auto Leisuredrive rusty bucket.
1987 DG1.9 LPG Auto Autosleeper
"Blissfully happy in your presence".