Correct orientation of washers on castor rods

[Gyra]

I've been experiencing poor handling and steering response on my car for some time now, but haven't had any spare time to investigate properly.

 

Tonight I noticed the washers on the caster rods are installed differently.

The right side has them cupped inwards, whereas the left has them cupped out wards.

 

I'm guessing this is affecting both the caster and toe-in on one wheel.

Probably my fault - don't know when...

 

Any ideas which way is correct?

 

Also the right hand rod seems to be adjustable, with a threaded section, where the left side doesn't have this.

Is this a standard feature? Why not both?

 

Thanks in advance!

Gary

 

[Linton]

pretty sure the the dish or cup is out thats how they are one mine at least

[Gyra]

Ok, I've reinstalled the washers with the dish side out (ie opposite to the attached pic).

The steering vibration has gone, but the vagueness remains - as if not enough positive castor angle.

I'm booking in to Trutrack in North Melbourne for a wheel alignment next week, as they're quite close to where I work.

I gather they're well respected, but suspect they could be pricey - any opionions?

 

Cheers,

G

[Riceburner]

You may have checked these already, but what's the condition of the steering rack rubbers, steering coupling rubber, ball joints?

 

If you just get a front alignment it should be fairly cheap, around $30.

[luvemfast]

If you just get a front alignment it should be fairly cheap, around $30.

Where you going?

Never had one under $50 

[Riceburner]

Local tyre shop, in and out in 15mins. It's strictly just a front wheel alignment, castor/camber are non adjustable as is rear end.

[Zedman240®]

There are little "U" shaped shims that are used to adjust castor angle. They sit between one of the large cupped washers and the shoulder of the rod. May be needed if you want a wheel alignment..

[Gyra]

Took the car in to the local tyre shop for a look and it seems the steering rack is shot.

Was difficult to see when sitting on the ground, but up on the hoist we could see a fair amount of play.

 

Any recommendations for where I can get the rack overhauled? (Melbourne north west).

Or is there a modern replacement that's easy to install?

 

Also the left rear has excessive toe-in (+12). Are there adjustable bushes available to fix this?

I'm not looking for a fully adjustable suspension, just enough to set things good enough for normal road driving.

 

G