1994 E32 740i - Steering Problem!

[Bosher]

My steering seems very light at high speeds, and whe it is windy I have to compensate quite a bit. When I go over a very bumpy road surface, eg cobbles, I get a knocking sound/vibration direct into the sterring wheel itself. Also when stationary and I wobble the steering wheel I can feel play in the movement and a slight knock. I have checked the bushes at the front end and they seem all okay. Any ideas????

[muleman]

Bosher
I just completed a total rebuild of my 1994 E32 front suspension/steering. If you have not done so already, get the front end up in the air and check the front wheels for play. I suspect that your tie rods are ready for replacement. As for the knocking, check the stabiliser links. I replaced mine along with the stabiliser bushies and eliminated the knocking. You do not mention mileage, however you should check the strut inserts (shocks) as they may be shot. This would explain in part the high speed instability you are experiencing. Another focus area would be the upper/lower control arms.
Muleman

Originally Posted by Bosher

My steering seems very light at high speeds, and whe it is windy I have to compensate quite a bit. When I go over a very bumpy road surface, eg cobbles, I get a knocking sound/vibration direct into the sterring wheel itself. Also when stationary and I wobble the steering wheel I can feel play in the movement and a slight knock. I have checked the bushes at the front end and they seem all okay. Any ideas????

[Bosher]

Thanks I will have a look -mileage is only 87k, but it had been sitting around alot prior to me aquirong the car!!
Thanks

[Bosher]

I've checked the bushes and struts and they seem all okay!
Could it be the sterring box??
By the way I've also checked the large nut inside the drivers footwell!!!

[muleman]

Bosher
I would be surprised if it is the steering box giving you trouble with only 87K
on the clock. Some of the earlier (pre-90) E32's had a problem with the steering box mount coming loose/breaking but I don't think it affected the later vintages. Might be worth a look in any event. There is also the swivel joint on the lower steering column assembly to consider when you are up in there. If you get someone to wiggle the steering wheel while you are under the car you may spot where you have excessive play in the system or something loose. Take a look at www.realoem.com as they have some decent exploded assemblies of the system components for reference.
My problem was a result of cumulative wear in the ball joints - of the tie rods, upper/lower thrust arms, and completely shot strut inserts.
Keep us posted!
Muleman

Originally Posted by Bosher

I've checked the bushes and struts and they seem all okay!
Could it be the sterring box??
By the way I've also checked the large nut inside the drivers footwell!!!

[FAIREE740IL]

Hello Everyone I Just Purchased My Dream Car A Bmw 740 Il.the Car Shakes When I Brake Either At Low Speeds Or High Speeds. Had A Someone Check Out The Brakes, He Said It Has Cheap Brakes. If I Replace The Brakes Will This Solve The Problem ?