steering rack

Post by **poppet** » Tue Aug 21, 2007 9:38 pm

Hi
Can anyone help.
I have been offered a second-hand steering rack(already off the vehicle)and wondered if there is any way of telling if it is in good order.
Thanks

Post by **bmcecosse** » Tue Aug 21, 2007 10:59 pm

You would really need to strip it - but you will get an idea by turning it from lock to lock - looking for no 'sticky' bits - and if the rubber bellows are not broken - then no dirt should have made it's way inside! Also try to estimate how snug the ball joints at each end are - if really floppy and loose - then they will need tightening up, they are adjustable and it's so much easier off the car! I wouldn't pay more than say £20 for a rack - £10 would be better, and FREE much better!

Post by **IaininTenbury** » Wed Aug 22, 2007 12:38 am

I understand that Minor racks are used on stock car racers and are readily saleable to such folk regardless how worn the rack is. (No MOTs and presumably they dont do much mileage or last too long). Seem to fetch £30ish no problems too. Probably not good for the long term future of spares for Minors though....
Regarding wear, I agree, no 'notch' either side of centre and smooth side to side movement and you should be in with a chance!

Post by **bmcecosse** » Wed Aug 22, 2007 9:46 am

Oh if I was selling a rack I would be looking for upsides of £30, but a buyer should be trying for less!
I do wonder though - why do you think you need a spare rack 'poppet' ?

Post by **poppet** » Thu Aug 23, 2007 5:25 pm

Hi
Thanks for the advice - will be changing the old one shortly. There has been a 'rattle' in the 'rack' for some time now though the steering has not been affected at all - just plain noisy

Post by **MarkyB** » Thu Aug 23, 2007 5:34 pm

While we are on the subject is it possible to remove some shims from the rack damper while it is in the car to reduce rattling?

Post by **bmcecosse** » Thu Aug 23, 2007 8:18 pm

I would just pump in some grease and shut up the noise. Worth a try!! Haven't tried the shims in the car - there's not much room!

Post by **poppet** » Fri Aug 24, 2007 8:42 am

What would I do without grease!

Post by **Dominic** » Fri Aug 24, 2007 1:19 pm

A newly reconditioned rack is not much more than £30 from the suppliers. Just fitted one to my car, transformed the steering and handling, also much quieter now.