Steering Rack question

[sergei]

What is the purpose of the big nut with counter nut on the steering rack under where the steering wheel shaft enters the rack? I assume it is for preloading the rack? In my ST165 the rack feels too light on the first 30 degrees of steering wheel movement, is it possible to make it slightly tighter? Actually the engine on/off does not make much difference how it feels in that range of movement, also there are no cluncks or play in the wheels so I assume it is not the freeplay at fault in the rack ends?
oh it is ST165 with antilift kit (increased castor).

[sergei]

Ok I found some guide on the net:
http://www.valvoline.com/carcare/articleviewer.asp?pg=ccr20060701sr&cccid=2&scccid=3

Has anyone has anything to add?

[fivebob]

In my ST165 the rack feels too light on the first 30 degrees of steering wheel movement, is it possible to make it slightly tighter?

As it says in the article you posted. (posted for the masses that are too lazy to click the link )

The key point is to never over-tighten the assembly. Excessive preload will cause rapid wear and can result in dangerous binding.

In general preload adjustments are for taking play out of the rack (or any other gearset for tha matter, e.g. a diff) not for altering the effort required to turn them.

[sergei]

I think what I have is actuall play as if I move steering wheel a few degrees it does not affect the direction of the car... I've checked rack ends/ball joints they are "tight"...

[Zak]

Is the rack power assisted? If it is you will have about 7 degrees on either side of play to operate the valve assembly. Your toe would also affect your turning effort.