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Question about factors that affect steering

rsh37930
07-15-2008, 08:25 PM
What impact do tires(tread, air pressure, etc..) have on the heaviness of steering versus the adjustment of tie-rod ends ?

I encountered a rattle in my steering wheel. The rattle was solved by some adhesive cushion tape around the radio and cruise control components. However, during the process of fixing the rattle, the service technician also re-calibrated my steering wheel, which included some tie-rod end adjustment. Since the tie-rod adjustment, it feels like my steering is slightly more heavy ( tighter ) at both low and high speed. Therefore, this is why I ask the question, is it all in my mind or can steering weight(tightness) be affected by tie-rod adjustment ? OR how much does tire tread impact steering ( my Michelin mmx tires have ~28K on them ), or any other factors with steering ( light vs. heavy feel) :dunno:


thanks.
Aviography
07-16-2008, 02:24 AM
It's likely just your imagination, tie-rod end adjustment shifts the centering point of the steering wheel so it doesn't look crooked, it does not have any effect on the steering effort.

Higher tire pressure means less contact patch on the road surface and would therefore reduce steering effort/feel.
rsh37930
07-16-2008, 10:57 AM
It's likely just your imagination, tie-rod end adjustment shifts the centering point of the steering wheel so it doesn't look crooked, it does not have any effect on the steering effort.

Higher tire pressure means less contact patch on the road surface and would therefore reduce steering effort/feel.

Thanks .... last time I checked the mmx pressure was 32 .... power steering fluid level is good ...
91EX
07-17-2008, 04:14 AM
Steering effort can be affected by tie rod adjustment. If there is too much toe-in it will make the steering feel heavy. If the toe is adjusted more neutral, the steering will feel light and may wander.
rsh37930
07-17-2008, 10:32 PM
Steering effort can be affected by tie rod adjustment. If there is too much toe-in it will make the steering feel heavy. If the toe is adjusted more neutral, the steering will feel light and may wander.

Thanks.

Aviography - Any more response appreciated.
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