New Rack from DMC

[smcguiga]

Who all have installed the new rack from DMC? I just finished swapping it out with new tie rod ends and the steering is much harder. I assume this is just because its new but I just wanted to check. When I turn, I have to turn the wheel back as it doesn't attempt to straighten up at all after a turn. I don't expect power steering ease, but my original one didn't require as much work. I can only assume the new rack needs no oil or grease, just install it and go. ??

[DMCMW Dave]

Who all have installed the new rack from DMC? I just finished swapping it out with new tie rod ends and the steering is much harder. I assume this is just because its new but I just wanted to check. When I turn, I have to turn the wheel back as it doesn't attempt to straighten up at all after a turn. I don't expect power steering ease, but my original one didn't require as much work. I can only assume the new rack needs no oil or grease, just install it and go. ??

It's unusual that it's that noticeable, but it will loosen up a bit with some driving. It should not take long. It's all pre-lubed, nothing needed in that respect.

Did you happen to install a new steering column bushing at the same time? That can have a notable effect as well.

[smcguiga]

It's unusual that it's that noticeable, but it will loosen up a bit with some driving. It should not take long. It's all pre-lubed, nothing needed in that respect.

Did you happen to install a new steering column bushing at the same time? That can have a notable effect as well.

No new steering bushing...according to PO invoices it was replaced a few years ago. Yeah I figure with everything being new and tight that it might take some time to loosen up. I installed lowered springs and shocks, rotors and pads as well. I debated trying to do the ball joints but they weren't loose at all...definitely have some rusty spots in there that I'll need to address soon.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERPAWn3aw-A

[Rich_NYS]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERPAWn3aw-A


Good video, I bet you can do a helluva Matthew McConaughey impression....!

[smcguiga]

Good video, I bet you can do a helluva Matthew McConaughey impression....!

LOL...alright alright alright! I'll have to work on that one. :) The southern accent definitely comes out huh?

[mluder]

I installed one about 6 months ago... I don't recall it being too tight initially.
I assume you had an alignment done afterwards?

Cheers
Steven

[Parzval]

I agree with the alignment question. I don't have a DeLorean, but my Camaro had the same "not returning to center on it's own" problem. It felt like the steering had drag on it. It was also very wishy-washy in turns, like the tires didn't have enough air. Turned out it had a toe-out. Got it corrected and it returns to center on its own now and rides through turns like it's on rails. If you haven't done so, give an alignment a shot.

[smcguiga]

I installed one about 6 months ago... I don't recall it being too tight initially.
I assume you had an alignment done afterwards?

Cheers
Steven

That was my next thought. I purchased some alignment plates and checked everything myself. Initially I was about 1/4" toe out when I first finished the install but readjusted until I got 1/8" toe in. Naturally this isn't laser accurate but the plates had pretty good reviews. Will probably go ahead and take it somewhere anyway to confirm.

[Mark D]

I agree with the alignment question. I don't have a DeLorean, but my Camaro had the same "not returning to center on it's own" problem. It felt like the steering had drag on it. It was also very wishy-washy in turns, like the tires didn't have enough air. Turned out it had a toe-out. Got it corrected and it returns to center on its own now and rides through turns like it's on rails. If you haven't done so, give an alignment a shot.

I'd like to hear more about the Camaro :)

[smcguiga]

So I had an alignment done and it was off in the front a bit...the driver side tire was slightly toed out and the passenger side was about right. Now they are ~ 0.12inches toe in on both which is spec per the service bulletin. This didn't' really change the tight steering issue as far as I can tell. I didn't do anything with the rear as I plan to do a spring/shock/rotor/pad replacement on the rear soon and will get it adjusted then. However, I know there is no caster adjustment, but the drivers side seems to be off a bit. Anything at all to do here?

43581

[Trstno1]

Who all have installed the new rack from DMC? I just finished swapping it out with new tie rod ends and the steering is much harder. I assume this is just because its new but I just wanted to check. When I turn, I have to turn the wheel back as it doesn't attempt to straighten up at all after a turn. I don't expect power steering ease, but my original one didn't require as much work. I can only assume the new rack needs no oil or grease, just install it and go. ??

What ever happened with this? Was everything better after the alignment and break in period? I too have a new DMC rack, and just hooking it up to the steering u-joint linkage it seems to be tighter. Especially far left. It seems much looser far right. Hmmm...