Steering Rack Help

[ck89]

Hi, I think my steering rack is on the way out.

When i turn the wheel to the right i'm hearing a klunk. Now it only happens sometimes. Ive also had 2 mechanics check the car on a lift on 2 seperate occasions.

They said all the track rods, cv joints, bearings etc were fairly new and had no signs of faults or wear... this being becasue they were all replaced about a year ago.

My car is a 97 pre-facelift ek9, 100% unmodified.

Also wondering how long the issue can be left and is it dangerous, One of my friends said, "as long as there is no power steering fluid leaking, don't replace it because it will be fine"

All help appreciated

 

[Dino-Spumoni]

I think you should just keep using it and see what happens. The parts on the inside of the rack are robust and will not break or slip in a dangerous way unless you literally smash up your car. If it gets to be a real problem from the rack, any good mechanic will be able to tell you it is indeed the rack.

 

[stevenEK9]

if the rack is worn then you will usually feel that there is alot of free play in the steering, this CAN be adjusted as there is an adjustment point on the rack to take up some of the slack caused by wear and tear

a clunk i would generally put down to something else suspension related

how are your suspension top mounts and especially your ARB drop links?

 

[Moony187]

hi guys, sorry to hijack the thread but i also seem to be having this problem, thought no point in starting another thread if i'd be able to get an answer in here. Steven, where is the adjustment point exactly? I haven't taken a look at the steering rack itself but i've checked my ball joints,track rods and bushes and there doesn't seem to be anything wrong with them so i'm thinking i should give this a go. Any help will be appreciated. Thanks

 

[b2theenneh]

Would also like to know this adjustment point (if the EJ9 has one!) because it feels like a i have a little play but it's nothing in the joints that suggest this.

Cheers