Hi all,
Have an E plate cabriolet. It has 200k on the clock however has been very well maintained by the previous owner, have a lot of history however nothing to suggest there's been a significant maintenance on the front suspension.
I know that as a Cab there's not the chassis rigidity however the front end feels very woolly and vague. There's almost no play on the steering rack and the bearings seem fine (no play when grabbing wheel), suspect bushes and ball joints, the shocks and springs seem fine, no leaks, or corrosion or bounce, one small bounce and quick settle when pushing on each corner.
HOWEVER - Just wanted to see from others how crisp the steering should feel on the Cabs even allowing for the lack of rigidity??? I've read that the MK1 really needs a lower end brace which I will be fitting. Don't want to replace a load of stuff just to fine that that's pretty much how they feel!!!
Assuming the steering should be crisp and precise I suspect a combination of wear all round however don't want to spend unnecessarily. The ball joint on the steering feels fine, moves with some effort with no play whatsoever.
Have jacked up the car with the suspension hanging, the bushes look ok with no visible signs of perishing or wear however there's a degree of give see these pictures (wishbone and antiroll bar, don't forget the suspension is hanging so this may be normal?
Plan a) is to replace the ball joints anyway and then bushes on the wishbones and antiroll bar and add a lower brace.
Any thoughts or other suggestions welcome. Thanks guys!!
Jason
