Rack knocking after suspension work

[marksx]

Hi all,

I have replaced top mounts and bearings, along with ARB links today.

As I set off for my test drive the power steering pump was noisy. That has quietened but there is now a definite clunk when I wobble the rack around centre.

Haven't dared try driving yet.

What could it be?

Thank you

[marksx]

Whipped boots off. Not sure what it should look like...

[mfp4073]

marksx said:

Hi all,

I have replaced top mounts and bearings, along with ARB links today.

As I set off for my test drive the power steering pump was noisy. That has quietened but there is now a definite clunk when I wobble the rack around centre.

Haven't dared try driving yet.

What could it be?

Thank you

If the car was clunk free before you replaced all the suspension parts, the first thing I would do is make sure you have the weight of the car on the ground or ramps and recheck all the bolts you have been working on.
If you tightened everything up when the car was on axel stands something may not have seated properly.
As for the photographs, it's difficult to tell, you need to check for worn components at both ends of the steering rack including the track rod ends, just in case.
If everything seems in order, I'm wondering if a spring hasn't seated properly?
If all else fails maybe jack the front end of the car high enough to look underneath, but still having the front wheels touching the ground taking some of the weight, get someone to turn the steering quickly left to right and see if you can locate the source of the knock.
I have just checked my car, and when I turn the steering wheel quickly left to right, I get a very slight knock, but nothing major.
In 2015 I had new top mounts, bearings, struts, springs, drop links and a rack fitted, my car made the above noise both before and after!!!!!!
I hope this helps?

John

[marksx]

Thank you John.

Everything is tight that was removed.

Wheels off moving lock to lock there is a jump which seems to be in the rack.

I can feel it in the ARB links too, but I don't think it is coming from there. Wonder if I have over/under tightened the top ARB bolt? Wasn't really sure there.

There is also the possibility that it was noisy before and I've just never noticed

[mfp4073]

Marksx,

As you have checked the obvious, I think the only option left is to get a second opinion before you start spending money. ( I've done that a few times!!!! ) Hopefully it will be something simple.

Best of luck, John

[THUNDER STORM]

I have a feeling that it is the spring jumping in the location cup, have someone hold each of the springs in turn while turning steering.

Hope this is all it is .

Ade

[marksx]

THUNDER STORM said:

I have a feeling that it is the spring jumping in the location cup, have someone hold each of the springs in turn while turning steering.

Hope this is all it is .

Ade

You could be right here. It seems to have gone away now.

I can't get over how light the steering feels now

Though it was like this...