Power steering rack bushing?

1998 BUICK CENTURY
97,700 MILES
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XXXTREME2
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I have a 98 buick century that ran well til about a month ago. Now the steering wheel moves all over the place and you have to turn it a lot to turn the wheels when driving. While going slow speeds I have to really crank the wheel and it's making tons of clunking and grinding noises. Does this sound right to be the bushing where the column meets the rack? What else could cause this? What is the easiest/cheapest way to go about having this repaired? I owe about $500 til it's completely paid off and would like to continue to keep it but if it's too much of a hassle I will sell it. Any info is greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Dec 12, 2011 at 7:20 PM
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FIXITMR
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usually loose wheel is form TILT mechanism failure. it can be repaired if done soon enough. have someone look at it. i use my local craigslist to look up helpful mechanics.
Dec 12, 2011 at 8:31 PM
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XXXTREME2
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@fixitmr- What i've noticed is where the stering column meets the steering rack there is a sleeve that doesn't sit all the way down as it should. When I turn the wheel the front of the car moves up and down as if something is loose. It does look like maybe there was a bushing in the open space of the sleeve that may have completely came out. I would just like to know what I should be looking for and what to have done with it so a shop doesn't over-charge me for work I do not need.
Dec 19, 2011 at 2:37 PM
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FIXITMR
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does not sound like what i was suggesting. i would take it in and have it looked over and an estimate given. then come back here to tell us what is the problem and possible solutions.
Dec 19, 2011 at 7:40 PM
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FIXITMR
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or like i said craiglist mechanix and have them check it out.
Dec 19, 2011 at 7:50 PM
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XXXTREME2
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The mechanic just told me the frame is broken that the steering rack sits on. He also told me the metal of the frame is very thin and would be difficult to have welded. Either that or I have to have the frame replaced. At this point I am listing the car for sale.
Dec 21, 2011 at 4:00 PM