MK2f 86c.

So when i get up speeds about 50mph ish if I pull the wheel quickly I can feel a delay in the steering making it feel as if it takes a while for the steering to react. It is only noticeable at speeds above 40 when moving the wheel quickly makes the back end feel loose. The rear axle bushings are find and so are the top mounts, all wheel bolts torqued up and tyre pressures equal, dont know why it keeps happening.

I was thinking maybe the steering rack bushings are worn as there's a knocking noise when the wheel is moved back and forwards when the car is stationary and generally feels as if something is loose. There's no backwards and forwards movement on the wheel, but can hear it knocking. Also the car is on ARB blocks and steering arms no longer fouling the servo or inner wings, any ideas?

Tom.

Edited 25 October, 201510 yr by TomDUBS

get someone wiggling the steering wheel while you watch in the bay ...you should be able to see where the slack is

As above, but you need to do this with the weight of the car stood on its tyres (not jacked up) - so, either on the ground or with the road wheels on ramps.

You are looking for movement where there shouldn't be any, for example, the steering unit (rack) moving lengthways in its mountings, the track rod end housing moving whilst its ball-pin stays still.

There is also the possibility of 'lost motion' at the inner ends of the track rod - you would be able to feel this through the gaiter.

Your description doesn't seem to indicate this, but it is also worth checking that the clamp bolts on the steering column universal joints are tight. Note it is possible for these to appear tight, but that the actual splined shaft is not being clamped, in any case, once that these things have been loose, simply tightening the bolt can't be relied upon to be a safe cure - replacement parts are normally required to be sure that the steering wheel doesn't turn without moving the road wheels ! - Don't laugh, it can happen.

Regards

Also with the steering rack bushings is there any chance of getting hold of replacements instead of ordering a brand new rack?