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Post by tony105 on Feb 13, 2011 10:45:10 GMT
As mentioned in the 'electrical' section, I am putting my Mini back on the road. I have noticed the steering has become heavy and not as light as I remember.
I wonder if replacing the top and bottom ball joints (via a repair kit?) would be advisable or if the heavy steering may be down to requiring a new steering rack?
Roger.
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Post by clambod on Feb 13, 2011 17:49:21 GMT
Have you checked the tyre pressures. If it's been stood for a long time the tyres will have lost pressure.
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Post by asahartz on Feb 15, 2011 19:45:43 GMT
Tyre pressures will make a difference, but the rack is also a possibility. I have replaced a rack for this reason, and they're not that expensive (£50ish). The ball joints usually become slack, not tight, and are a favourite MOT fail. For the sake of £8 a side you might as well do them anyway.
Jack the car up on stands, release the steering lock and swing the wheels manually. Then disconnect the track rod end and see if there's a difference. If it's a lot lighter with the TREs off then suspect the rack - it will probably feel rough through the wheels if the rack's stiff too.
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Post by tony105 on Feb 16, 2011 13:25:57 GMT
Many thanks for this everyone.
The renovation is now underway and I'm looking forward to having the Mini back on the road. I'm actually thinking of replacing the 165 tyres with 145 tyres - as it's the Mayfair it was originally fitted with 145 but I went for the 165's as they looked better and were I believe fitted to Rover Mini Coopers; The cost of 145's is much cheaper and I think they will look more original. The tyres that are on at the moment are cracked on the sidewall so will be an MOT issue.
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Post by asahartz on Feb 16, 2011 18:23:53 GMT
Not all that much difference in handling IME, and 145s are better in snow. Be careful with the budget brands on offer though, some (eg Nankangs) are real ditchfinders. I've found Sime to be a decent bedget compromise tyre.
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Post by notamini on Feb 27, 2011 21:05:40 GMT
Just some qick observations.
Have you checked your stiff steering with the car raised? If not, it may be front alignment and/or tire pressure.
Have you just noticed this after swapping out the tires to 165's?
The fatter wheel will also change the feel.
Dragging brakes will also cause stiff steering.
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