Loose steering?

[johnb16a2]

Hi,

I've got a "problem", I just got my 89 Civic Si (with 134,000) on the road after a long while and have noticed the steering seems to be "loose" in high speed sweeper turns.

I've replaced all the front ball joints, both tie rods, I have poly bushings everywhere except for the upper front and rear control arms (the rubber bushings are new).

I do have a list of potential culprits though...

1. Steering rack is worn or out of adjustment (it's the original unit)
2. The struts are worn, they are original as well (I did take one apart and they seem to be good)
3. Cheap Walmart "performance tires"

Any info is appreciated.

Thanks.

[EF_LSVtec]

Inspect under carriage for loose suspension parts but otherwise I suspect tires. If something's broke handling will be loose everytime and not on fast sweeper turns only. Does it feel like car is pushing a lot? (understeer)?

[Santas90Si]

Im saying understeer. Its a weird feeling if your not used to it. Also rear trailing arm bushing. Those two make a big difference in the way a car handles.

[Shaguar47]

I'm not sure if this would help, but check the bolt that holds the steering wheel on. Mine came loose I experienced the problems your saying. Just pop off the emblem and you'll see it.

[johnb16a2]

Thanks for all the info.

I guess it's understeer, because the car feels like it want to turn tighter than the corner.

I did majority of the suspension work myself and I did replace the rear trailing arm bushings with poly energy suspension units recently.

I will go around with my torque wrench and double check all the bolts including the steering wheel (I'll mark them with paint like they do at the factory).

Yeah, the tires were a rare cheap moment for me, I usually by very high quality name brand or oem parts for the 89.

Don't get me wrong, the Douglas Performance GT-H tires are a quality product but maybe ment for someone with more modest requirments....