Steering Rack Grommet

[nc211]

I just got my car back from the shop where I had new pads put on the front. I also had them replace the steering rack cushions "grommets". ArmyofOne told me a few months ago they're good to replace. When they wear out, the rack can bounce up and down on the chassis, causing a rattle and vibration throught the steering wheel. I had a vibration coming through the wheel, but not too bad. Well, the new ones are in...took 10 minutes to do...and it sure did make a nice difference in the feel of the steering. Feels tighter, smoother and no more vibration through the wheel. There are two of them, and they cost about $20 each. The part number is:

45517-50020 & 45516-50020. I highly recommend replacing these. It can easily be a DIY chore with no problems, I'm just lazy in the summer to do it. Still recovering from nightmares from replacing all the front suspension parts myself 6 weeks ago! :o

[ED.]

How hard was it? I feel a light shake in the steering sometimes and with 170k I am sure it needs it. WHat is the procedure like? I am assuming you have to jack the car up?

thanks

[nc211]

If you turn your wheel all the way to the right, then look from the back of the tire and follow the inner tie rod, you'll see the upside down U shaped metal bracket that goes over the rubber gromment. It's a little like the stabalizer bar bushings. It's two bolts for each one. I would figure if you put the car up on ramps, you could get to them easily! The part is #2 in the attachment. It's listed as an "insulator". You'll see the #3 part when looking through the wheel well.

[ED.]

I am still recovering from my last Lexus repair. I better get going. Up next is the BMW. New HID lights. 6000k baby!

thanks

[Tony G]

I just got my car back from the shop where I had new pads put on the front. I also had them replace the steering rack cushions "grommets". ArmyofOne told me a few months ago they're good to replace. When they wear out, the rack can bounce up and down on the chassis, causing a rattle and vibration throught the steering wheel. I had a vibration coming through the wheel, but not too bad. Well, the new ones are in...took 10 minutes to do...and it sure did make a nice difference in the feel of the steering. Feels tighter, smoother and no more vibration through the wheel. There are two of them, and they cost about $20 each. The part number is:

45517-50020 & 45516-50020. I highly recommend replacing these. It can easily be a DIY chore with no problems, I'm just lazy in the summer to do it. Still recovering from nightmares from replacing all the front suspension parts myself 6 weeks ago!  :o

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This is definitley something I need. Ordering the part right now. Thank you.

[Tote]

Can You guys give a little more info on the Rattle and Vibrations? Is it constant?

In My Case I get it when I am close to making a full turn. just a bit before the wheels stop. Example. Would not feel when making a left or right hand turn but would feel when making a u-turn or 3 point turn (not Always felt).

Items considered:

Steering fluid - it's half way on hot- maybe needs more. Will wait and see.

Tires - Since I don't always feel it maybe the rubber and type of pavement I'm on.

Now considering the steering rack grommet after reading this post. Depending on feedback.

Tote