6 replies to this topic

[theoldmini]

Have just bought a 97 sportspack and see it has adjustable tie bars on the front.  i have noticed the car pulls to the left slightly on harsh braking.  The braking system has been checked and all ok, could the issue be adjustable tie rods.  What length are standard bars this will then give me an idea if these are way out.  Going down the road the car runs straight.  Front brakes are all ok have not checked rears.  Thanks

Edited by theoldmini, 16 August 2025 - 08:33 AM.

[nicklouse]

It is most likely poor suspension set up. As in corner weights, cast and camber.

 

standard length means nothing as if it has been lowered it will have less caster with standard length rods and will drive like a pig.

[bpirie1000]

Quick cheap way to investigate this..

https://youtu.be/YZa...?feature=shared

[68+86auto]

Quick cheap way to investigate this..

https://youtu.be/YZa...?feature=shared

That method can only be used to centralise the steering. Nothing else. The OPs problem cannot be identified using that method.

[rww]

Have just bought a 97 sportspack and see it has adjustable tie bars on the front.  i have noticed the car pulls to the left slightly on harsh braking.  The braking system has been checked and all ok, could the issue be adjustable tie rods.  What length are standard bars this will then give me an idea if these are way out.  Going down the road the car runs straight.  Front brakes are all ok have not checked rears.  Thanks

 

  From the evidence you give :

1. The car steers straight when not braking

2. The car  pulls to the left under harsh braking

 

From the above I would suspect and check the rear brakes before spending any time on the suspension. Each rear wheel drum brake contains a hydraulic cylinder containing two pistons each operating a brake shoe. The pistons can seize or leak fluid if not regularly used and it may be , as you have just bought the car, that it has been standing for some time. This may well be a long standing fault with the car , the previous owner having not operated the brakes 'harshly' or if they had , then tolerated the 'pulling'. It's a couple of hours at most to check the rear brakes and if all good, then move on to  front wheel steering measurements.  The checks do require some mechanical expertise and tools so if that is something you want to do but are unsure of the level of difficulty, then post again on here. 

Edited by rww, 16 August 2025 - 11:05 AM.

[Spider]

If it drives straight and only pulls under brakes, I'd be inclined to suggest that's a knackered steering rack.

[roblightbody]

Based on my experience, I'd say its the rear brakes.