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Hi All,

I have an issue with my car where the steering feels very stiff. It's present if the car is moving or off the ground with the engine running.
While moving I need to almost help it self centre rather than allow it to go it naturally.
The tracking is good, and I don't suspect it's the issue as it feels the same with the engine running but wheels off the floor.
I'm wondering if it could be top mounts, worn pump or rack, or the friction adjuster on the rack is too tight.
Has anyone else had these symptoms?
Thanks

Sounds like the pump is failing. You could check the fluid level and maybe flush to see if there's evidence of swarf.

I've checked the level and it's in the middle.
Yes will do a drain and flush. I guess run it through coffee filter paper and see what's in it!

Is there a correct/good way to drain the system? Or just take the return pipe off the reservoir and run it?

Have changed the fluid in the system. Sadly no improvement to the feel. The steering is stiff to move even with the wheels off the ground, engine running or not. It's not a very smooth movement. I'd expect with the engine running, wheels off the floor, to be able to turn the steering super easy. It's really not, worried that the rack might be buggered

I've read that the preload can be adjusted, but I'd be surprised if it had been done to such an extent that the steering is so stiff. Plus from looking where the nut is, I dont think anyone has been in there before.

Taking the rack out, if it comes to it does not look a very fun job....

So I've disconnected the track rod ends, to isolate the rack from anything else that could be causing to stiffness. Still the same. Turning the wheel with the engine running is Ok-ish. Can just do it with 1 finger.

But with the engine off it's not great, it makes a creaking noise once your outside of the dead ahead position. And is far harder to turn than I would expect.

Do these have servotronic 'assistance'?

Yeah, it's Servotronic. If the electronics fail then it reverts to a regular power steering system. I don't think your problem is coming from that.

I suppose it could be the pump rather than the rack. I had that on a Subaru once. The steering would go stiff while you were turning then lighten up again, more or less randomly.

But if it was the pump, shouldnt it feel smooth, but with some resistance without the engine running. That is my previous experience with other cars.

Yeah, you're probably right.

You could try adjusting (looser) it until it starts knocking then dial it back to just the point where there's no play audible.

If it is the rack that’s buggered.
I had my rack replaced recently. The mechanic said it was fairly straightforward. However one nut was a problem. One click at a time of the ratchet spanner whilst using a screwdriver under the spanner to stop the spanner from slipping off.

I've tried to wind the preload adjuster looser, but 12 point spanner is going to round it off, have got a 6 point on order. Would rather try this before taking the rack out....

@steve2003rs6 did you get your rack rebuilt or bought a new/2nd hand one?

Felix.
My car is my daily and I didn’t want it off the road.
So lots of homework and help on here to determine the right rack I needed.
(There is a fully documented thread on here)

Then I bought a rack off a car being broken for parts.
This was sent away for a complete overhaul.
Then switched them over.
I kept the original rack.
It meant my car was off the road for 2 days. The garage that installed the refurbished rack is just down the road from me, and we have a great understanding/relationship.
It’s taken me years to find a local garage that I trust.

I think I remember reading your thread. Will have another read.
If after adjusting the preload it's no better looks like I'll be going down the same route.

If needed I have my original rack. And I can get you the details of the overhaul company.

Not wanting to tempt fate. My rack has been great since it was fitted.