Sorry about long title, car has been into Halfrauds today to look at the suspension (as other places just haven’t done it).

 

their conclusion was that the gaiter has split on one of the steering rack boots and ball joint dust cover on one of the wishbone arms is damaged. 

 

First question, is it possible to replace either covers, or does it mean a whole new steering rack boot and wishbone arm (as Halfords would like to put in)!

 

secondly, are either of these issues likely to make the steering feel “funny”?

You don't need a new wishbone, just the balljoint and a rack boot, changing the wishbone is far more work than changing the balljoint.

None of these things would make the steering feel funny.

2 minutes ago, sepulchrave said:

You don't need a new wishbone, just the balljoint and a rack boot, changing the wishbone is far more work than changing the balljoint.

None of these things would make the steering feel funny.

Cheers.

 

would you have any idea what the rack boot would be called in my Haynes manual? Just trying to figure out if it’s possible to do it myself! (I’m guessing not but if there’s a chance of saving cash I’m going to investigate!)

2 hours ago, Wench said:

Cheers.

 

would you have any idea what the rack boot would be called in my Haynes manual? Just trying to figure out if it’s possible to do it myself! (I’m guessing not but if there’s a chance of saving cash I’m going to investigate!)

 

Steering rack boot or gaiter, they're the same thing.

You need the tracking checked after changing it because the track rod has to come off and you need special tools to remove both balljoint so...

Cheers that will be a garage job then. 

Did my steering rack boots back in July last year. It's very difficult to get the tool in to crimp the standard type inner clips due to lack of room, so I used stainless steel hose clips. I know some people would use cable ties but that's not acceptable to me, especially as the boots are made of quite stiff thermoplastic and could easily pull off if not secured properly.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited 26 January, 20197 yr by TMB