steering gear/tie rods

[mike22]

I don't know if this is a much discussed topic.I've read about loose anti-sway bar bushings and the clunks that come along with them.I too have loose bushings with my 2000 Caravan so I know part of the problems' solution.

The problem I'm having is anytime I turn a corner there is a single click coming from the steering whether I turn left or right.Just before it comes to a complete stop there is an occational loud clunk that is felt through the steering wheel.It's not the cv joints because I had the left side replaced after it snapped just recently and Midas has inspected the right driveshaft and it checks out.The rest of the suspension parts with the exception of the anti-sway bushings (ie.ball joints,tie rods etc.) are in good shape.

I later put the van up on jacks at home and turned the steering wheel from side to side and noticed a distinct "loose part" clunk on the left side
where the end of the tie rod connects to the steering column(the part you can't see underneath the protective boot).I don't know why Midas did not notice this.

Is this a tie rod only problem or do I have to replace the entire steering assembly?

The Van itself has got(think standard) 147,000 miles on it(yes it's a 2000).Do I have to worry about anything snapping and wheels turning opposite ways?

Quite concerned.

[Bulldog Brewer]

Sounds like you have a faulty inner tie rod end!

[mike22]

thanks bulldog.i was kind of leaning towards it being the tie rod but i never had a problem like this with previous vehicles.

it's going to have to wait for another month since aircare is up in august.will try to take corners lightly and hope for the best.

wish me luck!

[mike22]

i was wondering one more thing.does this have the potential to damage the steering gear?

[Bulldog Brewer]

As with any other problem, the longer one waits to repair it the more stress that is being put on the related components can do damage over the long term. Should be o.k. though till your ready to fix the problem. Good luck!!

[mike22]

Thanks again Bulldog.Just got back from a 200 km camping trip and it seemed to hold up pretty well on the highway and backroads.Although the windy Crowsnest caused me a little anxiety lol.Any idea on the cost of the inner assembly?I know it cost me $98 at Midas for the "outer" tie rod end for the right side.Is it part of an entire unit or are the outer and inner assemblies separate?

[Bulldog Brewer]

Inner tie rods are seperate and you will have to check on the cost.

[mike22]

Thanks a lot.You've been a great help.