Front Suspension problems
Front Suspension problems
I replaced the lower control arm assys & tension rod bushings on my '97 Q45t last week. Turning the wheel lock to lock was creating a clicking noise which I could also feel. Took the the car to CAR-X & an independent & was told the ball joints were bad. Got the parts from Joe & did the work myself. Well I'm still having the clicking noise. I plan on getting a four wheel alignment this week when I get new tires installed. I'm hoping this may clear it up. But if not, any clues as to what else may be causing the noise? Anyone?
No I haven't. The clicking occurs when I turn the wheel pretty far to the left all the way to lock. Clicks about 3 times. Then returning & turning to left it clicks a couple times. This problem started leaving work one day over a pretty bumpy road @ 2-3 mph. That's also when the car started pulling to the left, then changes it mind & pulls to the right. And sometime not @ all. But there is definitely a difference in alignment & ride.
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Q45tech
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- Posts: 14296
- Joined: Tue Apr 30, 2002 3:19 am
- Car: 1990 Q45 342,400 miles 22 years ownership with original engine
1995 G20t 5 speed 334,000 miles 16" 2002 wheels - 205/50/16 Sr20ve vvl
The rack is held in position by 2 rubber bushings [they fail frequently on 90-96 Q when PS fluid leaks on them].They should be replaced every 7 years anyway.
Put it on a rack/elevated and have a tech listen while you swing the steering to the stops.
Lots of diagnosis take 2-3 people simultaneously.
The bump stops [steering limiters] and the rack and the toe may not be coincident.
Put it on a rack/elevated and have a tech listen while you swing the steering to the stops.
Lots of diagnosis take 2-3 people simultaneously.
The bump stops [steering limiters] and the rack and the toe may not be coincident.
Two related questions-
What are the differences in symptoms between a worn Lower arm ball joint and worn kingpin bearings? I have play, per the (dial and pry bar) test procedure in the service manual, but I can't determine what is causing it.
Is replacing the rack bushings a DIY job? Any tips from veterans?
What are the differences in symptoms between a worn Lower arm ball joint and worn kingpin bearings? I have play, per the (dial and pry bar) test procedure in the service manual, but I can't determine what is causing it.
Is replacing the rack bushings a DIY job? Any tips from veterans?
Ah, the search engine! Previously Q45Tech wrote Quote »This was a top to bottom play vs the side to side play of defective tie rods and ball joints similar to what a defective upper link might create.[/quote]
Mine is side to side- indicating upper link, tie rod, or ball joint. Since the link is quick, and I believe I've got almost 40K here-I'll do it first.
I also have a kingpin and related parts on the shelf, from the previous car that I bought but did not install.
Still any other comments welcome.
Mine is side to side- indicating upper link, tie rod, or ball joint. Since the link is quick, and I believe I've got almost 40K here-I'll do it first.
I also have a kingpin and related parts on the shelf, from the previous car that I bought but did not install.
Still any other comments welcome.