Steering Woes

[bong69]

Hi all, out of all the problems with my car this one is the scariest! Its a 90 spec 16v with power steering, when I turn, it seems like the wheels play 'catch up' with the steering input, like theres a slight delay, also if I turn right the steering wheel centres fine but if I steer left the wheel doesnt return quite to centre but the wheels do, its reminding me of dead zones on computer games from my younger days! Any help or pointer much appreciated 

[VeeDubGTI16v]

try changing the rod ends

[bong69]

Thanks mate! I like it.....sounds cheaper than a rack!!!

[l333]

hi ure best bet is to jack the car up and check suspention for play with the good old shake test and replace accordingly u will prob find bottom arm bushes gone or sumthing along them lines

[MarcN]

Sounds like the track rod ends need replacing, had a similar issue ages ago.

[Wayne]

Could also be play in the rack.

[VeeDubGTI16v]

possibly, but what are you gonna try first, the rod ends or the rack?

[bong69]

rod ends....cheaper! Actually I had a look at the rods and the rubber does look perished, gonna get some and try em on, thanks for the help chaps!

[VeeDubGTI16v]

lol exactly. no wonder tsr charge so much if thats the chain of thought 

[bong69]

Changed the rod ends....no different, got the front end on axle stands, had a wiggle seemed ok, ventured under the oil covered abyss and bingo! The drivers side clamp over the rack was hanging off! the nuts were hanging on by a thread, tightened up drives lovely! Cheers chaps