16 valve handling...all over the place!?

[devere]

Hi.

I was hoping to get some advice on my 16v. The handling just doesnt seem right. Everytime i go round a corner, the back end just feels so 'loose'. I just wants to slide out and feels like its going to spin me.  Its as if when i go over any slight bumps, it throws the car out, and just doesnt want to stay true.  Its not too bad in a staight line,  but with the cornering problems, i just dont have the confidence in it.

I rolled my 8 valve about a month ago which seemed to be suffering from similar symptom, but it didnt feel as bad as this new one. With the 8 valve the back end over took me round a corner and i flipped afer hitting a back..     I want to be able to drive my 16v enthusiastically, but only when im happy with it.  Could the shocks be worn and old that they just arent giving the back end he grip it needs...??

Any help would be great please!

[boneybradley]

I would check the rear axle bushes first....common fault but they normally come with a knock!!

[Wayne]

Are the rear axle bushes easy to do.

[boneybradley]

it's a matter of droping the back axle off and cutting the old bushes out and then pressing the new one's in.....fairly simple with good tools but the passenger side one has the load valve in the way!!  I would never fit them again unless they were easy to fit poly bushes....

[devere]

Is that likely to cause the back end to 'wnder' then?

[Mk1Mad J - 16v]

I'd check you're right foot, you sure you not just expecting a wee bit too much of your golf 

oh.... it is a Mk3 of course yep deffo the above 

[Pete Taylor]

To be fair it's a combination or worn axle bushes and pants standard suspension. Poly bushes highly recommended to replace the rear axle bushes

[Wayne]

To be fair it's a combination or worn axle bushes and pants standard suspension. Poly bushes highly recommended to replace the rear axle bushes

Do the poly bushes make a big difference and is it harsh with them fitted.

[Pete Taylor]

Yes the rear end will be a lot firmer, but that's a good thing, huge difference round corners

[Rmachines]

Mine has started to do this a little bit but the bushes are ok.  Im wondering if the suspension top mounts could be leting the shocks swing a little bit.  not sure though