bkmax98

iTrader: (4)

Wassup guys, I just came back from getting a wheel alignment. Initially the steering wheel was not centered. It was turn a little to the left when driving straight. After i got the alignment, the steering wheel was now turned a little to the right when I'm driving straight. So i bring the car back and the mechanic says that my steering rack bushings needs to be replaced. He seems pretty honest and he also told me that after I replace the bushings, I can bring it back and have him adjust the alignment again for no charge. So now my question is: where do you guys recommend me to buy these bushings? Should I go with aftermarket bushings from autozone or should I go with OEM from the dealer?

heynow

iTrader: (1)

http://www.partsamerica.com/ProductL...inion+Bushings

Get TRW or MOOG.

I rebuilt my entire suspension, and had the streering rack mounts/bushings checked (it was beleived that my rack was shifting, cause my pull to the right). Nada, after numerous allignments, it still drifts to the right.

f550maranello2

iTrader: (2)

i dont see how the rack can move since the steering column is attached to it....

heynow

iTrader: (1)

oh, apparently it can, even so slightly. Maybe not side to side, but up and down at least. Imagine loosening the rack mounts (or have busted bushings), it can create 1/2 inch of play on each side. I watched my rack bushing beign changed, it can move.

maxima1239

iTrader: (16)

Thats what happened to me. Last week i got my alignment done and my steering was still not centered and the mechanic told me my steering rack is loose because of those bushings.

dgeesaman

iTrader: (10)

It can definitely move independently of steering column as there are universal joints in the steering axle.

Replacing the bushings is a pain only because you need to drop the y-pipe to remove the passenger side heat shield protecting that bushing. Then you loosen the bracket, slip the bushing out and replace.

Dave

heynow

iTrader: (1)

Thanks Dave. I've only had one replaced so far, since thry had no time to drop all that stuff to do the other one. Maybe that's the root of my problem. They said they both were fine.

bkmax98

iTrader: (4)

Thanks for the input guys.