View Full Version : power steering rack interference
I aligned my car a few weeks ago and noticed a slight notch feeling when I turned the car about 1/4 turn left, but assumed it may settle down once driven a bit. Today while up on jack stands, I noticed the notchiness was still there, even with no weight on the car, so it is it not an alignment issue. Upon inspection, we found that the steering arms slightly run on the frame at the spot where I feel the notch. It looks like I need to space the rack a bit forward. Anyone heard of this or know if an easy solution? I know the Breeze offset bushing spaces the rack about 1/4" forward, so this would most likely fix things. How hard is it to add this to a completed car?
Thanks
JJK
gbranham
01-06-2024, 09:30 PM
Can you share a picture of where it rubs?
gbranham
01-06-2024, 10:30 PM
Are you trying to show that the rubber boot covering the inner tie rod is rubbing on the frame?
it is not just the rubber boot, the tie rod is pushing against the boot and slightly rubbing on the frame. I think an eighth of an inch separation would alleviate the rub.
edwardb
01-07-2024, 12:04 AM
Haven't see that before. I had power steering and no Breeze bushings on my Mk4 build without any issues including adequate clearance in that area. Maybe a silly question, but just to confirm, you did remove the OE rubber bushings from the rack and install the Factory Five poly bushings and sleeves?
yes, I replaced the bushings as in the instructions
edwardb
01-07-2024, 12:17 AM
yes, I replaced the bushings as in the instructions
OK. Just checking. Don't even know if that would matter. But it's the only variable I can think of. If the Breeze bushings would correct, that's certainly an option. I've used them on previous builds. But not the most recent. They were popular for previous Roadster versions where the rack mounts were slightly off center. But that was corrected. Also were supposed to help with bump steer. But that was before the 2-piece custom spindles were released. So I haven't used them since.
michael everson
01-07-2024, 05:34 AM
Before doing anything with the rack, check all your joints first. As others have said, this has never been a problem. Also check the set screw at the fire wall. Sometimes it can interfere with the bearing retainer.
Mike
Mike, good suggestion but not the culprit. I can see how the set screws could rub on the bearing retainer, but mine are snugged down and don't appear to be the point of interference.
rvanstory
01-13-2024, 10:02 AM
I aligned my car a few weeks ago and noticed a slight notch feeling when I turned the car about 1/4 turn left, but assumed it may settle down once driven a bit. Today while up on jack stands, I noticed the notchiness was still there, even with no weight on the car, so it is it not an alignment issue. Upon inspection, we found that the steering arms slightly run on the frame at the spot where I feel the notch. It looks like I need to space the rack a bit forward. Anyone heard of this or know if an easy solution? I know the Breeze offset bushing spaces the rack about 1/4" forward, so this would most likely fix things. How hard is it to add this to a completed car?
Thanks
JJK
I seem to have the exact same issue! I just installed the rack, but can feel the slight notch you are feeling too. Will you please let me know what your solution becomes? Thank you.