Stiff Steering

[Dryfry]

My Tercel has developed stiff steering which turned out to be that universal joint joining the steering shaft to the rack.
If only Toyota had not sealed these things up ,Otherwise I could have opened it up and greased it up.
Its now soaking in a mix of oil and diesel which should hopefully free it up again.

[takza]

As long as the bearings aren't loose...they will last a long time if you put light oil on them every 3-6 months or so.

[Dryfry]

The oil and diesel soak has freed up the uni joint and all is well again with the steering.
In fact the bearings arent loose at all . Even though its a 1986 Tercel there's bugger all play in the steering.

[gmeddy]

my 84 SR5 has developed slop in the steering lately, and just recently i've noticed it's become stiff when turning, like it wants to pull in the direction i've been turning, and hard to straighten back up.
this thread is interesting.
i think i'll see if i can pull it apart and grease it up.
where are the bearings located?
thanks

[davep1968]

My first Tercel was undrivable due to the seized uni joint. replaced it and I was away, easy job.

[Petros]

it is the bearings in the U-joint between your steering rack and the steering shaft. if you have slop it needs to be replaced, lubing it will not help.