Issues after rebuilding steering rack

Tiny
DIVIDES
  • MEMBER
  • 2015 SUBARU WRX
  • 4 CYL
  • TURBO
  • 4WD
  • MANUAL
  • 51,000 MILES
Excuse the length of length.
Removed rack to change the seals that were leaking. I marked the steering rack joint that attaches to the steering arm which connects to steering. When I removed the rack, I forgot, and I removed the whole gear from the pinion rather than just the top part held by two bolts. So, when I installed it back on while outside of the car am sure the mark is now off. Installed everything and tried to match the mark on rack to the joint but the steering was off, so I turned it by eyeballing it and installed it. Steering was off a tooth still after driving it. Removed the steering u joint from up where it holds to the steering wheel and from the bottom where it attaches to the rack. I tried to straighten everything by adjusting it and now when I drive it is off to the other side and if I turn just slightly to the right the traction starts to flash and it feels like a bind. I messed up big time, not sure if a new rack would solve it or if they can align it now. And I put new tires on it.
Saturday, April 30th, 2022 AT 10:44 AM

6 Replies

Tiny
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Took it for an alignment, the traction light is no longer there, steering is straight. Only still have a slight vibration between 60-70.
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Saturday, April 30th, 2022 AT 6:41 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
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Hi,

Have you checked the tire balance or a bent rim? Do you feel the vibration more in the steering or the seat and floor?

If it is more in the steering, then suspect the front wheels as to where the problem is coming from. If it is more in the seat/floor, it is likely in the rear.

You indicated the tires were replaced. Were all four replaced? Are they the OEM size?

I attached the general diagnostics below for a vibration. Take a look through it and let me know if anything helps.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.
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Saturday, April 30th, 2022 AT 9:34 PM
Tiny
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Yes, all tires replaced, same tread and brand and size. I will check.
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Sunday, May 1st, 2022 AT 5:46 AM
Tiny
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Sounds like a plan. And just to confirm, was this an issue prior to the repairs to the rack and pinion?

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe
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Sunday, May 1st, 2022 AT 6:35 PM
Tiny
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I don't think I had this issue before the rack if I can remember correctly, but I drive it again and it's mainly 60-67 MPH.
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Sunday, May 1st, 2022 AT 6:46 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,724 POSTS
That sounds like a tire balance issue. If it was a mechanical issue, I feel you would notice it through all speeds. Also, check to make sure the tires don't have a shifted belt or anything that could cause issues.

Let me know.

Joe
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Sunday, May 1st, 2022 AT 7:19 PM

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