steering problem

[gottadog]

hi everyone. i've got a problem and just wanted any info/opinions/suggestions. i'm pretty sure its the rack and pinion.

my steering recently had a few things happen to it. first i noticed that i slowly started developing slop. the dead spot just gets bigger and now is getting close to a full turn (1/2 on each side).

if i turn right then the wheel is to the right as i'm driving straight. and the the same for a left turn.

then today i noticed the power steering isnt working. in the dead spot the wheel is easy to turn. then if i turn the wheel more it gets hard as though the engine were off. worse turning left.

i've checked the fluid. its full. always use honda safe p/s fluid.

anyway thanks

[Christ]

rack is shot, or you need tie rods/ends.

I'd guess rack. If you have to go through the crap to replace it, get a manual rack.

[gottadog]

hey dude, you again. lol. thanks. i just cant imagine what the hell is causing the slop. i dont have anyone to help me the last few days. i was gonna jack it up and move each wheel after locking up the steering wheel to see what is moving and isnt. but its pouring out here. driving f'ing sucks now. i have to be so careful.

i havent looked in my manual yet bout replacing it. i have replaced them in other cars. my last in a taurus. pretty easy. when the rain lets up i'm gonna check it out.

i'm scared the steering will get so bad or just plain fail. i've never encountered such a problem before.

thanks dude

[gottadog]

i finally went to pull the rack and pinion and found that the 2 main bolts that hold the unit up were both gone. pulled the metal pan that protects it. one bolt and bushing was in it. the other is long gone. i ordered the bolts new bushings and washers and now my sterring is A++++!!!. so i'm guessing the steering got hard because the unit was slid over about 3/4". maybe it was the linkage from the wheel to the unit that was rubbing.

[Christ]

Yeah, that would do it. Good that you got it fixed, and didn't have to replace the rack while doing it.