Don, the two bushings at the mount points of the steering rack are probably worn
(loose). If you have someone rock the steering wheel back and forth you probably
will see the steering rack moves back and forth (left and right) before the
wheels move. Both my 83 and 84 did the same. I believe the worn bushings are
the cause of the instability problem.

The bushings are not too expensive, But an alignment may be needed after replacing
them. I have not replaced mine yet so I can't prove the above. Let's hear
what other experts will say.

David

--- Don Hanson <dhanson@GORGE.NET> wrote:

> Another rookie Vanagon question.
>  Recently I have been unhappy with the directional stability of my 84 GL.  I went through
> switching tires with The List, and that certainly helped significantly, but I am thinking it
> could still do better.  I have been under the front and done a quickie exam of the steering
> components.  Pulled on wheels, checked tie rods, wheel bearings, etc etc.  Nothing seems to be
> worn, loose, wrong.  And yet, when it gets gusty, the nose of the van gets blown off
> course...Not nearly as bad as before, when I had some "mushy side tires" but still a bit
> unnerving.
>   Is a worn steering rack something that happens?  Or the mounting bushings for the rack?
> Anybody have any hints as to where to go looking, when all the 'usual suspects' like tie rods,
> wheel bearings, etc. look fine?
>
>   Thanks, Don Hanson
>

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