OK, replaced my lower control arms, both sides to match, as the driver side ball joint was worn. Waited for 1/2 year until I could afford it with the eonomy and all.

I have left is a slight wiggle in the steering wheel. Inspected the underneath and the there is also a click sound as you move the wheel a 1/4 turn in each direction. Took the car to my friends shop, got it in the air and it is definetely coming from the rack itself, inside.

So I want to replace the rack. OEM is like $800 and i found a Scantech unit for about $220 complete with everything down to the clamps.

Is this a good choice?
Do they make good replacement racks?
Would you suggest another manufacturer?

Thanks,
Ray

 

I've heard bad things about Santech lower control arms. I'd be pretty leary about using their re-built racks.

 

have you checked the inner tie rod ends?

 

No I didn't check the inner tie rods as the sound was unmistakenly coming from the center of the rack. Went ahead and opted for the Santech rack. From my local parts supplier, they noted Santech had the lowest return.

Now I just have to get the steering universal joint to come off the shaft. Stuck. Two rounds of penetrating oil and I will tackle that again on Sunday.

 

Copy that.... good luck, let us know about the quality once you get it in..

 

Tip on the coupler. Tap a screwdriver up the slot in the coupler to help it come out easier.

 

MattyXXL,
RE: Quality
A good friend of mine owns a VW repair shop and he sees allot of the Maval units and complains about the QC on those parts and the fact it is a huge operation making racks for all kinds of cars. When we opened the box from Santech, it was very pretty looking and complete with everything from one side to the other, outer tie rod to outer tie rod, it also comes with a filter.
I will take pics of the unit before I install so you all can see.

At Tech, started with my long flat head and it not yet succuessfull with opening the gap. Went the way of penetrating oil twice last night and will again it this morning and let it soak for a bit. Maybe I will use my longer pry bar which has a flat screwdriver end.

Wish me luck today. 1st time doing a rack in any type of a car.
Ray