To be honest with you, 20mm was the correct play. All Datsuns have this play in the steering and must have the play.

2 to 3mm play on the steering wheel will probably wear out the box prematurely. But it will feel nice for while

For the original 1200s (71-73 models) factory specification was 20 to 25 mm (about 1 inch).

had them further out than that, and had them prob 5-7mm further in than that also on diffrent 1200s

Is it for adjusting steering play?

How well do they work?

Well it obviously wont stop slop in your steering linkage but if the steering wheel moves without moving your pitman arm you should be able to tighten it up, just dont over do it, you'll shag the box out in no time.

Mine is in about this far.

Quote:

Yes.
According to the manual, the steering must have a little play in it when you wiggle the steering wheel left to right asif you are turning.If the play is too much then you must ajust this screw inwards and lock it with the bolt in the picture to decrease the play.

It makes a difference.Mine was ajusted about 7 years ago by the mechanic because it had a bit too much play. At 20mm play it is much better now.

As mentioned by WhiteSedan, it must not be overdone.There must still be a little play in the steering.

Now I don't feel so bad about the over spray on my steering box...

Mine is screwed in the same amount. I haven't adjusted mine yet, but it also only has about 10mm play, so I guess it' not necessary to adjust it.

Off topic: Just out of interest, your Golf also has an adjustment screw exactly like this. Just sail under your car from the right hand side, and have a look, it sits underneath the "steering box". Works with a allankey and nut, I had to adjust my Golf I had once...

Thanks kulula.
I will check it out altough the steering is still ok on the golf. But still good to know where what is on your cars if something needs tampering with.