Steering tube bushings on 1998 XTC 700

[febigblockford]

Do I need to remove the engine on my 1998 XTC 700 to replace the lower steering tube bushings? I have lots of lost motion and it all seems to be down at the bottom of the steering tube. Has anyone replaced theirs? Seems like the steering setup is the same on 500, 600, 700s?

 

[bluemonster1]

most probably have to remove or lift motor foe sure.I did my replacements when the motors were out.Would be the same with many of the models and years.I know you didn't want to hear that,but it is a good off season job for sure.Even with all new parts there still will be a slight movement going on.

 

[febigblockford]

steering update

I pulled the carburetors and airbox and found that the cause of most of the play is that the forward heat exchanger rivets had loosened up or fallen out. I had no idea that the lower steering bushings mount to studs that are part of the forward heat exchanger! I plan to install new fasteners to secure the heat exchanger to the frame, then see how the steering feels. I don't know if the four side mounts on the heat exchanger used rivets or M6 bolts, but I plan on using M6 bolts with nylock nuts and some flat washers to spread the clamping force across a larger area of the frame sheet metal

 

[BETHEVIPER]

the best way is to remove the motor, you can usually tighten the ones that are there by grinding a little off the metal sleeves that keep you from overtightening them. even when they are new, you can get them tighter. you will want to put a good dose of thin grease in it. replace the tie rode end under there and when you do, cut a small hole in a flat piece of rubber, making something that looks like a washer, about an inch around. now pack the tie rod with grease, then put the washer you made on top. This will stop melted snow from running into this joint and keeping it wet. the way it is stock, it fills up with water and rusts, getting looser