1993 Q45 rear lower strut mount bushings. very slack steeri

[dssturbo1]

hi, first post. very much a newbie and need some simple help at times.
I have a 1993 Q45 base model. 222,000 miles.
A couple problems to ask about today.

#1 I had a mechanic replace all four struts with the Tokico blues. The old struts were shot so it did seem to help some. But still having issues like wobbles over larger bumps/bad pavement. I realize by reading more through the Q45 forums that I probably need to have several bushing and other rubber mounting points checked out and replaced, like the stabilizer bar mount and ends, the front tension rod bushings, control arms bushings, tie rod ends etc, etc...

Also I did not do enough research and just found out that the rear struts have a lower bushing mount. I am sure they are toast as well so replacing the rear struts on those worn bushings isn't helping at all. For the ~$25 i would have surely had them replaced too but my bad. The mechanic did not mention them just slapped the new struts on.

i can hear a hollow noise in the left rear even at very slow 1-2 mph speeds over the smallest bumps and I'm just guessing that these lower rear strut mount bushing would be the first place and easiest to check.

Can these lower rear strut mount bushings be removed and replaced by hand or tapping them out or do they have to be pressed out and new ones pressed in? If pressed out/in, then can it be done using a tool while they are still on the car?

#2 The steering has alot of slack in it. It's so bad that when you make a left turn the steering wheel will be rotated to the left of center when going straight again and then you can make a right turn and it will be rotated to the right of center. It has leaked power steering fluid for awhile. Also when you go into a turn and kinda get it set it then seems to slack and just needs more steering input. This is general everyday driving on a regular road like driving down a slightly winding country road at 30-40 mph or 50-70 on the highway. I know the bellow is missing on the rack and pinion unit and is leaking out the seals there so I am thinking it needs a rebuilt rack and pinion unit. I saw someone mentioned the Rack Doctor for a replacement. Also will do the outer tie rod ends and hopefully that will get it back in shape.

I have a different mechanic coming to give it a general checkout, he replaced a master cylinder on it and hopefully he will be able to spot problems and give decent prices. Are there any recommendations you guys might point me too to help with the situations? I don't need it sporty just trying to get it back in shape and ride nice and smooth as possible.

Sorry for a long write up just trying to give as much info to get the best help. Thanks in advance.

[maxnix]

Don't neglect the steering rack mount.

At that mileage, all rubber is shot if not replaced in the recent past. Check all hubs, lower links, rear sub frame bushings.