Steering Gear Assy (rack and pinion) Issue

[g benjamin]

2004 Kawasaki Mule 3010 Diesel 4x4 KAF950B2  rack and pinion assy is held against frame by 4 socket head bolts (10mm x 23MM) holding the rack in place with metal clamps over rubber holders.  when I move my wheels the rack moves in those clamps. I have tightened the socket head bolts to the limit (they bottomed out against the frame yet the rack is still loose enough to move when the wheels are turned. It can only move the distance allowed by the clamps but I would think it shouldn't move at all.

My question is: Is this common, is it supposed to be that way?    The rubber pieces under the metal clamps ar called "Dampers" which suggests that the rack (Steering Gear) might be allowed to move for some reason???

The service manual does not mention or answer any of these questions.   Anyone know for sure??

[cliffyk]

They are indeed "dampers" intended to absorb (dampen) shock loading of the steering gear to prevent damage. The fellows that engineered it probably knew what they were doing, there is  likely a service spec somewhere defining a range of acceptable movement. The rubber can become compressed in use, allowing too much motion. If in doubt replace it, I see it's $25.71 from Kawasaki.

You can test the steering wheel free play to indirectly determine the damper's condition (after ruling out other potential causes of too much play):

from the 2004 shop manual:

[g benjamin]

Thanks cliff, appreciate the feedback. I will check the range of play and fix or adjust as needed , Thanks