8 replies to this topic

[AgentHubcap]

I changed my subframe bushings to solid mounts on the weekend, and now my steering wheel is not centered.  I didn't change anything on the steering rack or suspension.  Why would this happen?

The car is a 1994 SPI.

[Batmini]

Is the subframe back on square?

[AgentHubcap]

Is the subframe back on square?

 

I made sure the inserts on the subframe are aligned with the tower bolts, if that's what you're asking.  There is no extra space between the solid mount and the bulkhead or subframe tower, either.  The other mounts lined up perfectly, too.  I don't understand how it would offset the steering wheel, though.

[Batmini]

If the subframe isn't square to the shell you would turn the wheel to compensate. If you measure the wheel centres to the shell, are they equal on both sides?

[Steve220]

I'm confused. Is your steering wheel now offset, or off centre? Ie is it not straight to look at or has it physically moved the steering column? If it's the first then your old bushes must have been worn for some time and now the subframe is now mounted straight. To be honest, Any changes to the subframe mounts then I'd have it tracked regardless.

[AgentHubcap]

Offset as in it the steering wheel spokes don't line up with how the car is facing.  Like if you got a bad alignment and they left the steering wheel in the wrong spot.  The position and angle of the column has not changed.

[xrocketengineer]

I'm confused. Is your steering wheel now offset, or off centre? Ie is it not straight to look at or has it physically moved the steering column? If it's the first then your old bushes must have been worn for some time and now the subframe is now mounted straight. To be honest, Any changes to the subframe mounts then I'd have it tracked regardless.

I think he is right, you need the front end aligned. The steering rack is attached to the body and not the subframe. Any changes between the subframe and body will be reflected on the steering. Most modern cars have moved the rack to the subframe to improve handling and steering accuracy.

[AgentHubcap]

It didn't even occur to me that the rack was attached to the body and not the subframe.  Looks like an alignment is in order.  Thanks guys!

 

After driving the car around yesterday (first drive since the mounts went in) I'm noticing better steering response.  I used to have a dead zone when turning the wheel, and it is gone now.  I suspect the old bushings were so worn that the subframe was moving every time I turned the wheel.

Edited by AgentHubcap, 05 April 2016 - 05:27 PM.

[Cooperman]

Moving to solid mounts is one of the best things you can do to improve steering response. Now just unbolt the steering wheel and put it back on straight.