Track Rod replacement and WIMing...

[OllieWinchester]

Have bought some replacement track rods from you know who in an effort to rid my car of its annoying front end squeaking when turning right, as I noticed when looking underneath that the track rod end bushes are fubar. Are these easy to fit? What tools do I need?

Secondly, more of a general question regarding Wheels in Motion and other similar services. This 'geometry' that they set, surely that is dependant on the condition of all your suspension bushes, and condition of your springs and shocks etc. Am I right in thinking that there would be next to no point in getting your geo done until you have nice fresh suspension and bushes underneath? Since I'm now an NHS employee and no longer earning juicy sales commission every month money is tight so the little Eunos is a work in progress in terms of replacing tired parts, and progress is glacial at best. Any thoughts people?

[Red Firecracker]

You can get a geo done without replacing your suspension/bushes. However, the thing you have to be aware of is that of the geo is quite 'out', then it is worth popping back a couple of months later to have it rechecked and adjusted, as the bushes can 'relax back', taking the geo out of optimal settings. Mine was quite distressed according to Tony and had moved 2 months later. 2 months after that it had moved again but was still within the green zones.

It will transform the car and Tony will also be able to advise you on if the bushes on your car are shot and need replacing. Of course, if you replace the bushes and suspension you'll be wanting to get the geo set as well.

[OllieWinchester]

So, what you're saying is its worth having the geo done even if you plan on replacing knackered bushes and suspension in the near future, and its still money well spent? I thinkWIM are too far away from me, any reputable places near Hampshire?

Any idea on how easy the track rods are to replace?

[Red Firecracker]

All depends on how soon in the future you plan on getting the bushes and suspension done, I'd say. If you're thinking of less than 6 months, say, it may be worth waiting.

I'm in Brighton and make the trip up to WIM. Worst case is give Tony a ring and see if he'll recommend somewhere local to you. I believe he is also willing to speak to the garage of your choice and talk through the settings.

ETA: Sorry, no idea on replacing the track rod ends.

Edited by Red Firecracker on Saturday 25th July 17:08

[Shaw Tarse]

Ollie, contact Tony @ wim, he seems to check & reply to his emails at silly times.He gives good advice for free & does seem to care about his work.

[Prolex-UK]

I've known Tony @ WIM for 4 years now and his knowledge is second to none.....

Well worth a trip.

I know someone who drove from Scotland to have his Lexus IS200 WIM'd !