Steering/handling question

[DenRS96]

For the past few months my 96 RS seemed to have a little play in the steering. I had worn tires and needed an alignment, so I replaced the tires with new summitomo 245-50-16 tires and had an alignment done. The car tracks better and now has no play, but it still is not like it was a few months ago. The shocks are worn, but not terrible. I am going to replace those next spring(right now all my $$ are going into my 69 camaro). I had the rack, ball joints, bushings etc checked out and everything was fine. My RS only has 47000 miles on it, so I'm wondering why I'm experiencing this problem. The steering seems lighter and requires less effort to turn the steering wheel. I usually keep the tire pressure at 32 psi and found the car to handle fine at this pressure. Should I have the car aligned again? Any ideas?

[camarofan]

Generally an alignment is not going to "tighten" your suspension or any components. It is more for tracking, pulling and tire wear issues.

Loose or worn parts create the poor drivability issues. Was this a sudden change? Or something that has gradually worsened?

If it was a sudden change I'd start off by checking the stabilizer/swaybar links, both front and back. Make sure one hasn't busted. Worn balljoints can also create a wandering feeling while driving.

Tie-rod ends, both inner and outer, as well as the rack can create excessive play in the steering wheel. Depending on the amount of play, outer tie-rods can create a high speed shimmy.

If it was more of a gradual change start looking at shocks, struts, and rear springs as well as everything mentioned above. Depending on style of driving and road conditions it's not uncommon to see suspension wear earlier than normal, especially with our cars having factory sealed steering/suspension components.

Biggest question I guess would be if you trust the shop you took your car to? If not, it might be a good idea to have a more reputable shop inspect your car, maybe even a 3rd or 4th opinion if ya feel the need. If something is found wrong, go back to the first place and demand your money back. A thorough inspection and tight suspension is always required before an alignment is done.

[ November 25, 2003: Message edited by: camarofan ]</p>

[DenRS96]

Thanks for the reply. Its only noticable around 70mph or above. My cousin-in-law owns the shop, so I know I'm not getting screwed. I checked the rack myself and it seemed fine to me as well. I know I need shocks, but I'll check the sway bar bushings, end links etc. I think I'll replace the shocks first, then the sway bar end links and bushings. I have a feeling my shocks are definitely part of the problem. If the problem is still there after replacing those parts, then I think I'll replace the tie rods, ball joints, etc.