2 questions Steering rack and spark plugs

[samhain1]

I have had a creaky noise when using the steering for a while now, it doesn't seem to be getting any worse although I wouldn't be surprised if front bushes are worn as there is the occassiOnal knock.

When I turn the steering wheel fast when the car is stopped it's like there is a fault with the power steering as it doesn't seem to be able to keep up with my fast movement of the wheel say at stationary and turning the wheel to reverse, the steering is lumpy.

What are the symptoms I have and is this a failing steering rack or not?

Spark plugs what's the best set to get? What does it mean when I read that they are one step colder?

Thanks

Stu

[Hurdy]

Hi Stu,

Is the creaky noise coming from outside and underneath the car or directly in front of you? The first scenario would point towards the bushes. The second would point towards the steering rack. Early GTI's were known to suffer from creaking steering racks and most were replaced under warranty - you may have one that wasn't. Knock would also point to the bushes.

Just go for the OEM Bosch plugs. They are more than up to the task and I had them on my 440bhp Golf with no running issues.

John

[ROH ECHT]

Cooler plugs...OEM plugs are good. Using cooler plugs is only needed if heat is causing misfires/predetonation. That is when you will want a plug to cool quicker. The oem plug is a 7, so if you ever need a cooler plug you can get an 8 by purchasing plugs for a 2010 Audi A6 3.0 s/c - PFR8S8EG...by NGK

[samhain1]

sounds like the noise is coming from outside the car, but certainly in front........ placement...that's harder to locate from the drivers seat

[samhain1]

Can definately hear a knock now when you move the steering left and right only half a turn either side What's he part number for the golf gti 56 plate steering rack?

[ROH ECHT]

Have you had the sub-frame bolts tightened recently. They've been known to loosen up here causing creaking/popping noises.
Check the torque on the bolts in this post;
http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthread.php?4473701-Subframe-Bolt-Head-Sheared-Off&p=59028202&viewfull=1#post59028202

If the bolts are not it, can you get a sound clip?

[samhain1]

I definately think there is a bush away somewhere, the knock is fairly recent i.e. in recent days... the creaky steering has been there since I got it and as I said does not seem to be getting any worse but I don't like it, no other steering system I have had has had this creaking. It does feel like a wear and tear issue

The noise is there without the car moving so it is not drive shaft related the knock is definately steering/suspension....I just hope the creaking is not a failing steering rack at £800 a pop