stevo1970

iTrader: (1)

My car (MY00 Classic Turbo 2000)has started to wander around the carriageway. Also it struggles to turn left at higher speed. Everything is OK at anything up to 60mph but after that the steering feels disconnected meaning it need constant minor correction. Its most obvious when doing 70mph+, when turning the wheel left nothing appears to happen for the first little bit then we turn but still with the wayward feel.

There are no knocks or bangs or any noises. I've just had four new tyres fitted set to standard pressure but I can't see how this would effect things.

I'm leaning towards bottom ball joint or track rod end with play in but haven't had chance to take a look yet.

Does this seem reasonable thinking?

GpMarty

iTrader: (7)

hi,id check both ends of your steering knuckle joints are nipped up tight,i had similiar to what youre describing from a loose knuckle joint on the splines.

Dutch Scooby lover

iTrader: (3)

I would check the alignment, it may be off.

Also, are the new tyres the same brand/type as the old ones,as a different tyre can also make a difference in how you percieve the problems.

A tyre with a more flexible sidewall can give a more vague steering feel then a stiff sidewalled tyre for example, but the same also works vice versa.

If your alignment was already off with the old tyres the new tyres (that could have a stiffer sidewall) can lead to you feeling this alignment issue more clearly.

If the alignment is good ,a nd all the knuckle joint etc are good as well maybe your steering rack bushings have gone (as they keep the rack in place)

TonyBurns

iTrader: (3)

It could be play in the steering rack, you dont normally notice it going unti your going quicker than normal and it gives the symptoms you point out.
What sort of mileage has your car done?

Tony

stevo1970

iTrader: (1)

The car has 99,540miles on it. The only suspension or steering parts I have changed in the six years of ownership were the arb drop links all round.

Its funny tyres get a mention, I had four new Toyo T1-R 215/40x17s fitted to replace the 215/45x17 that came on a set of wheels I bought. Also the suspension has just been set up and all was well until the tyres were changed.

I had a good look round the suspension bushes, the only ones that looked tired were the rear arb, could this have an affect?

The wandering effect is most noticeable at exactly 60mph, its an unnerving feeling and something I want to resolve asap.

Dutch Scooby lover

iTrader: (3)

With that sort of milage, the steering rack bushings are a good starting point.
They are the cheapest part to replace of anything that has to do with the steering,and even if they are not the culprit (rack itself may be gone, or something else)it is good to replace them anyway, as they do make a big difference.

SLAB

iTrader: (77)