MadUsa1

I have a Hawk Eye STI (a European LHD version, which I beleive is pretty much identical to the Type UK).

I quite like the way the chassis behaves but I'm really not happy with the accuracy of the steering. The steering just doesn't seem properly connected to the front wheels - there's too much rubberiness, especially around the middle.

I've thought about fitting the usual Whiteline goodies (ALK, top mounts, PAS bushes), but just can't see how these can really make a big difference.

I've also though about fitting a Spec C steering rack, figuring the quicker rack will feel more immediate and reduce the slack in the steering - does anyone have experience with this?

Does the Spec C have much better (more accurate) steering than a Type UK?

TonyBurns

iTrader: (3)

Yes the Spec C and jdm sti have quick rack steering Which does feel slot better and more precise than the fast rack the none jdm cars have

Tony

Suberman

You'll be surprised how much of a difference an ALK makes especially when coupled with top mounts and stiffer bushes. ALK adds castor which gives sharper turn-in (stronger self centering). This will make the steering more direct and because it also adds castor, you'll get more dynamic camber. All good stuff

Yes, a Spec C or a JDM STI rack is much quicker with a 13:1 ratio as compared to 15:1 for the Euro/UK cars.

But before, rushing out to source for one, you might want to ask around if it fits. The MY05 and later Imprezas have steering angle sensors, and may not work switching around racks.

I found out the hard way by realising that a JDM rack will not fit a Euro/UK hatch.

MadUsa1

Thanks for your replies folks.

Does anyone know if Spec C racks exist for the left hand drive European cars?

Suberman

Yes, it does. STI made these for the Group N rally cars for europe.

MadUsa1

ok I'll check it out.

What about coilovers, how significantly do they improve steering feel and accuracy?

Suberman

That said, the LHD STI quick rack is expensive as it is a homologated Group N part.

Have not used coilovers on my Spec C (probably will not ) so can't comment on that. I would think it would probably improve response in body movement more so than steering feel.

You really shouldn't dimiss the ALK together with the top mounts and bushes.

Rice Rocket

iTrader: (23)

A wee bump here, but does anyone know if a quick rack off a Spec 2006 will fit a bugeye WRX without issues?
If there is issues what are they?

Thanks
Ricey

MadUsa1

Hmmm not sure, gotta be worth a shot though.

Let us know how you get on once you've done it.

I've just had an ALK, PAS bushes and strut to mounts fitted to my 06 STI and the difference in steering feel is immense.

Rice Rocket

iTrader: (23)

Just had an email back saying they sold it! :0(

Ricey

rickya

iTrader: (18)

Get either a Spec c or JDM steering rack (same thing) and also fit a "Whiteline Rack & Pinion Mount Kit"

Rice Rocket

iTrader: (23)

and that fits straight on to the rack?

Its was a brand new spec c rack too :0(

eggy790

iTrader: (20)

bttt for the above, Rikya is it the KSR202 kit from whiteline?

gpssti4

iTrader: (6)

Or ......

http://www.perrinperformance.com/p/187

Maybe worth a look.

chopperman

I don't know if its different to normal uk sti's but my RB320 steering feels very quick and is speed sensitive.

tom g

rb 320 is same as uk rack