Hi all.

This is mostly aimed at the newbs out there. This is what I did. NOT
saying it's the way to do it.

I replaced both upper ball joints, and lubed the steering rack. Now my
steering is easier. I suspect lubing the rack made the biggest
difference. I found it tricky to put the big ends of the steering rack
boots back on. Even with the steering wheel turned so the boot was
closer to the rack. (hint hint) So I made a tool. I bent the tip (~ 1"
in) of an old small-ish slot screwdriver, at 45*. Smoothed out the
edges. The portion of the boot near frame, is hard to get your hands
on. I used the tool to slip this part of the boot onto the rack. This
tool was also useful for applying the grease on the rack gear. It may
even prove to be useful for adjusting the brakes. Oh ya. I also found
that turning the boot while holding the rubber in place helped to slip
it on.

Prior to doing the work, the front end was squeaking. In checking the
driver side upper arm I noticed it was pretty stiff. (up/down) No play
in it, so I figured the bushings etc. were likely ok. I squirted some
"chain lube" type stuff in the "cracks" and let it soak in. Moved it
up/down a few times. It moved easier after that. No squeaks now. FWIW,
I doubt the D-side ball joint with the failed boot was causing this
sound. Don't know how long the lube will last though.......

Preliminary thoughts on the upgrade to Yokohama Y370. No noticeable
increase in tire noise, and feels a little more sure footed. (upgraded
from Nexen 185 R14) Better traction on wet surfaces. *Seems* better in
crosswinds, but no real test of that yet. Happy with the purchase.

Cheers,

Neil.

--
Neil Nicholson '81 VanaJetta "Jaco
http://groups.google.com/group/vanagons-with-vw-inline-4-cylinder-gas-engines
http://web.mac.com/tubaneil
http://tubaneil.googlepages.com/

------------------------------------------------------------
+    To unsubscribe from the Vanagon List send an e-mail to
+    listserv@gerry.vanagon.com with SIGNOFF VANAGON
+    in the body of the message.
------------------------------------------------------------