steering rack question

[Black VXR]

My 56 plate VXR has always had a little play in the NS inner steering rack ball joint. It was picked up as an advise on the last few MOT's but never considered a real issue. The OS is also showing a little play now. I am guessing this may be a common problem and as my car has now covered 117,000 plus miles its now time to consider my options. These cars are heavy at the front and quite hard on steering parts (mine has had several outer ball joints over the years). The car is starting to feel a little vague and wheel wobble at some speeds (likely caused by slightly knackered wheels which have been through quite a few pot holes) shows at the steering wheel, more than it did as the car gets older.

So, I am faced with a few choices and wondered what others have done

I could try to repair the rack, on cars I have previously owned, its possible to adjust the play by tightening the cup, holding the ball in place. I understand there are also new ends available, however re-crimping the ends may be an issue

I could replace the rack with a new standard rack - seems like a good option
A little cheaper is a quick rack option - has any one got one of these fitted please, does it feel very much different (better, worse).

I don't want to spoil the car by having a mod fitted that spoils the feel of the car - after all its a big engine lazy car - it I wanted a high revving, on the edge type car, I wouldn't have bought a Ro.

I am told its worth changing out the steering rack oil pipes at the same time(if I change the rack), they are all showing signs of rust and age.

I would appreciate your thoughts please?

[007 VXR]

IMHO The quick rack is a great mod, one less turn lock to lock, and stops you feeling like you are a ships captain

[Melchett]

I had the quick rack fitted last year to solve the same problem with my standard rack. IMO it doesn't spoil the feel of the car, I would say it makes the steering feel better but a little bit heavier. If you are not sure, try one.

[007 VXR]

When was the wheel alinement last done?
What tyres are on the car? (for me, changing them made a big diffrence to the feel) Pzero to MPSS.
pick up two second hand wheels for the front.

[SturdyHSV]

If you're happy to collect it you can have my old steering rack? It's a standard one from a VXR (LS2), it has done about 40k (maybe 45k?) and was replaced with a quick rack, had no problems with it.

It's just in my spare room, so as I said, if you want to come get it, it's yours

I'm in Aylesbury by the way.

[007 VXR]

SturdyHSV said:

If you're happy to collect it you can have my old steering rack? It's a standard one from a VXR (LS2), it has done about 40k (maybe 45k?) and was replaced with a quick rack, had no problems with it.

It's just in my spare room, so as I said, if you want to come get it, it's yours

I'm in Aylesbury by the way.

[Black VXR]

James, perfect - thank you. I have sent a PM with my details

[SturdyHSV]

Black VXR said:

James, perfect - thank you. I have sent a PM with my details

Replied

[j666eds]

I replaced both track rods on mine a few years ago because i had alot of play in the inner joints. Only took about 20mins aside using basic tools and iirc didnt cost that much either.

[007 VXR]

j666eds said:

I replaced both track rods on mine a few years ago because i had alot of play in the inner joints. Only took about 20mins aside using basic tools and iirc didnt cost that much either.

£24 each, mine done last week

[Wyld Stallyn]

Had a Quickrac and Road response Pac and other Various Bushes Changed and that transformed the Handling Night and Day

You Don't really notice the QuickRac until you get in the Twisties and Hairpins and then it comes into its own

Get Your Bushes and Mounts Checked too - Some of Mine were shot at 68k