Steering

[andy1912]

Thanks to some good advice here I put my 1998 Caterham in to a local specialist for a geo set up, following the development of handling problems.

Unfortunately they spotted a few problems, namely some movement of the OSF wheel bearing, NSR outer CV boot is split, and the NS track rod inner joint is so worn it needs replaced.

Based on the latter they cancelled the geo, which is fair enough. I called Caterham today who said I can't change the joint I need to replace the steering rack, which is about £300. Not good. Also they don't stock the boots required.

My question is especially re the steering rack: is there no way round this and if not could someone with reasonable practical skills change this themselves? Having just put out about £600 for the MOT I'd prefer to limit spend if I could though not if that means being stupid !!

Cheers

Andy

[DCL]

It is possible to to dismantle these racks and reduce the play in the joints but, if it's badly worn, then major parts may also need replaced, and the exercise may not be cost effective, particularly if you're not able to do it yourself. IMHO a worn steering rack is best replaced as it's quite high up on the list of safety items.

Edited by DCL on Tuesday 3rd May 16:47

[andy1912]

OK that makes sense.

Thanks

Andy

[GreigM]

A steering rack specialist can refurbish that no problem. The rack on the Caterham is as simple as it gets - I had the one on 2 of my previous cars refurbished and it made a huge difference to how direct the steering felt. Think it cost about £80 all-in, they even painted them so they came back looking brand new.

[andy1912]

Thanks for that Greig, do you know any?

[DCL]

Titan Motorsport make them and can supply the parts I believe. The may also repair/overhall/exchange yours for you. Good luck

[andy1912]

Cheers, thanks a lot.

[GreigM]

andy1912 said:

Thanks for that Greig, do you know any?

I got it done at Glasgow Power Steering, but I imagine its not a rare service to find, open the yellow pages and get dialling.

[fergus]

DCL said:

Titan Motorsport make them and can supply the parts I believe. The may also repair/overhall/exchange yours for you. Good luck

Due to their relationship with Caterham cars, they were reluctant to take on this work when I spoke to them circa 2 yrs ago. Give them a call to see if they are amenable.

[andy1912]

Thanks again. I have to drive my car about an hour out of Aberdeen in to the middle of nowhere to get someone to look at, so I'm not confident at all there will be a steering rack specialist hereabouts, unfortunately.

I have seen Caterham are now indicating in their website that they have the tie joints available, which cost about the same as people think a rack refurb would cost....