Recently replaced struts, and it is nice to not bounce going over speed bumps. However, now it feels odd with turns. It turns to the right easily, corners nice. Turning to the left requires more effort, though. I've checked the alignment and it looks good, (string method).

Before I start breaking it down, what might be the cause of this inequality? Of note, after shocks replaced, the steering wheel is turned a bit to the right.

Thanks,

Peter H

Hi Peter,
I had a similiar issue where the wheel turned easily one way and then wouldn't re centre. It turned out to be the little plastic bushing in the left side of the steering rack had disintigrated. I think Mad Matt sells a metal replacement now and it would never need replacing again. This could be one thing to look at.

Regards
Peter

I have stock struts and I hate going over those speed bumps. It knock the fillings out of my teeth.
Are you telling me there are struts which are smoother over the bumps and still ride well the corners etc ?



HaXD
Herzel, in Israel

WhiteX
The late Green '85 X1/9

What was the condition of the strut bearings? If they were broken or dry it may cause this, although frankly I'm not sure if it would feel one sided. I would check tire pressures first.

When I had mine apart to replace the top strut bushings, I cleaned and lubed my bearings (really a plastic bushing) with anti-seize. It felt like an improvement.

Mark Plaia designed and sold replacement bearing plates that used actual bearings. Perhaps he will chime in with more advice.

Gregory Smith

'87 Bertone X1/9 Corsa
'88 VW Vanagon
Olympia, Washington, USA
http://gregoryfsmith.com

Thanks for replies so far. The struts I used were from Summit, and rear strut tops from Matt. I know that the steering gear might be involved, since it shouldn't have grease all over one side of it! I bought a used one from Matt, and will try replacing it today. It is just that sometimes after you replace a part, thinking it was the cause of the problem, you find out it doesn't fix it! I like to avoid that.


Peter H