Slop in steering

[Mike6158]

I was at the tire store getting new shoes for my 2000 TLC. I typically do a walk around and check brakes, wheel bearings, etc when the wheels are off. I grabbed the front hub expecting it to not move and it did. It's hard to say how much but I'd guess about a 1/2". Both sides moved.

1) is this a rack and pinion issue? I'm assuming it is.

2) how serious is it?

3) already been discussed but this seems like it is the root cause of my traction control lockup problem

 

[re_guderian]

Can you describe how the hub moved? Typically, grabbing the tire at 3 and 9 o'clock and pushing/pulling and feeling movement before the steering wheel turns is indicative of R&P issues. On the '98-'02's the big bushing on the PS holding the rack to the frame cross-member tends to wear out first, and is easy and cheap to replace. The 2 DS bushings are harder to replace, but can be done. Have someone else wiggle it while you watch the rack and PS bushing. If you see the rack sliding within the bushing, time to replace it. Several threads here on it.

 

[Mike6158]

Typically, grabbing the tire at 3 and 9 o'clock and pushing/pulling and feeling movement before the steering wheel turns is indicative of R&P issues.

That's what happens. Added to that I can move the steering wheel, while driving at highway speed, about 10 degrees and it has no affect on vehicle track. I feel like I'm always behind the car when I drive it. It's raining here today and will be all weekend but the first chance I get 'll check the "big bushing" and see if that's the problem.

I should have said traction control front wheel lockup problem in the first post.

 

[lc98v8]

If you can't find a fix repack bearing.

 

[Mike6158]

How's this for an example of linear thinking?

Uh oh... I may have to replace the rack and pinion. But it might only be a bushing or two. Either way I'll have to get under the TLC to check and repair the part. May as well order a 2.5" OME lift and Slee differential drop too right?

 

[adrenalinefjz80]

How many miles? The new OEM D bushing might hold you for another year, but even that will get beat when drivers 2 bushings are toast.

 

[re_guderian]

Put poly in all 3 places. Then it will just beat the rack into submission. Poor design, and hence the change in '03+.

 

[Mike6158]

I guess I need to pay more attention to how the LC steers when I have that highly protective piece of tin in the front off for an oil change. I'm not even sure what it looks like so I'm not sure what bushings you're talking about.

 

[adrenalinefjz80]

Can't see much with the oil filter access plate off...

 

[TXLX100]

When is the last time the wheel bearings were packed?

 

[Mike6158]

Can't see much with the oil filter access plate off...

I mean the whole plate. When I change the oil I pull the whole thing, check for leaks, and clean it up if needed. The first time I pulled it it had about 1/4" of oily dirt. Nothing the second time.

When is the last time the wheel bearings were packed?

Not sure. But there is no movement in the vertical plane. Just horizontal.