bfrance

Has anyone rebuilt their PS control valve? Mine is leaking and I want to repair it over the winter. The kit is about $25 so it's a cheap fix, but I've never done it before and would like to know what I'm in for before I get started. From what I see, it so doesn't look too bad. Usually when it doesn't look bad it ends up a headache. Thanks for the input.

Tom454

In my opinion, it's an easy job. But... I rebuilt my first engine at 14, worked as a mechanic at a service station and at a large automotive service chain, and owned/operated my own 7 bay machine/repair shop. So- it depends on your manual dexterity. There are two adjustments- internal & external that you have to be aware of.

MikeC

Very easy job. Did it last month. Have fun!

What are the two adjustments? the centering of the spool, thats the only hard one. The ball stud adjusment isn't really that critical.

Tom454

I disagree with ya on that one.. the ball stud adjustment is very critical....
This is the reason most "rebuilt" units get sent back to the factory.
The steel shim gasket between the halves is *normally* a "one time" deal... so you need to get it right the first time.

A very slight looseness of the ball stud will cause a very large amount of slop in the steering. There is no difference between a loose ball stud and shot tie rod ends... the steering will slop around in either case.

I adjust these to -0- clearance and make sure the ball & socket is well greased during re-assembly.

No flame intended... just based on my experience.... been rebuilding these since 1975.

MikeC

I don't mean to be rude but I would never leave a ball stud loose, you are just waiting for disaster. Thats why I don't think it is a critical adjustment.

Tom454

MikeC... what we have here is a failure to communicate... we agree that the ball stud must be adjusted, but we don't agree on the use of the term critical. Let me define my use...

It is critical (necessary) that the ball stud be adjusted correctly for proper operation of the steering linkage.
Hope that is better.

And.. yes... people (including the rebuilders) do adjust the ball stud improperly... I have seen this many times on rebuilt units right out of the box. I have also seen and corrected mal-adjusted ball-studs done by Saturday mechanics. You and I would not do this, but other people, who are unaware that it is, in fact, adjustable, just slap the units back together, not paying attention to the ball stud adjustment. What we take for granted as common sense, is not always obvious to other people.

MikeC

Ok, with your definition your are correct.

In my mind I don't think of it as critical because it is just common sense.

Friends again? :D

Ben Taylor

Here are the step by step instructions with pictures
http://zip-corvette.com/controlvalve.htm

Jim Shea

The Zip Products information is quite complete as to rebuilding the control valve. You might also take a look at a paper that I posted at Terry Rudy's websight for just a bit more information. Go to: http://corvettefaq.com and look under Suspension and Steering. Pull up Control Valve Replace and Balance Instructions.

bfrance

WOW, great sites. This is just the info I need. I've been doing mechanic work for ----- well let's say a while. With this info, I'm sure I can get it right. Thanks to all who responded.

ukvette72

Hi
just picked this post up,sorry i'm a bit late.
I didn't know that you could adjust the play in the ball stud. This is the only part of my steering that has any play in it. The ball stud moves about 1/16-1/8 and the PS valve is not all that old. Can anyone tell me how to adjust play in the ball stud ??.
Thanks

David :seeya

Tom454

You have to disassemble the valve to adjust the ball stud.
This usually means you will need a new metal shim gasket that goes between the two halves.
Might as well buy a rebuild kit before you start.

I haven't looked at the links above, l but I assume they have step-by-step instructions.