Track Rob Ends

[eddypeck]

I need to replace the rubber boot on the steering rack, was thinking I'd probably end up slitting the rubber on the TRE removing it, I usually do! so they're not that expensive may as well get one and replace it anyway.... But looking on ECP there's 2 listed, standard and "for vehicles with steering damper" how do I know if I have a steering damper? it's a 1993 318i touring.

Also, last MOT was advisory of play in the rack, how to I go about shimming it?

[eddypeck]

Got an answer on the damper:
http://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showt ... st22111540

no red bar for me so safe to say I don't have one.

So, just taking up the play on the rack now....

[RobWill116]

You will likely split the TRE boots if you use a ball joint fork or scissor splitter - you a hammer and strike the hub where the TRE ball joint is seated, after a few decent whack it will drop out with no split boot

Correct way is to use two identical hammer and hit either side, but thats a bit tricky with access.

[Brianmoooore]

You don't have a steering damper. I have never seen a steering damper.
There's no adjustment possible on the rack, and I doubt if the garage mean't what you think they did. More likely to be play in the guibo, or possibly the track rod to rack joints.
No need to disconnect the rod ends from the steering arms to change the rack boots. Rod ends have to be unscrewed from the track rods to change the boots, so absolutely no reason to separate the ends from the arms.

[eddypeck]

You don't have a steering damper. I have never seen a steering damper.
There's no adjustment possible on the rack, and I doubt if the garage mean't what you think they did. More likely to be play in the guibo, or possibly the track rod to rack joints.
No need to disconnect the rod ends from the steering arms to change the rack boots. Rod ends have to be unscrewed from the track rods to change the boots, so absolutely no reason to separate the ends from the arms.

Ok thanks, you've just saved me a TRE

so with regards to "track rod to rack joints" how do I get deal with that?

[Brianmoooore]

With the rack boots off, you'll be looking straight at them, and will be able to see/feel if there is any free play in them.
You'll also be able to see and feel if there is any lateral movement of the rack in its housing, although I'd expect this to be accompanied by leaking steering fluid.

[Carmo13]

It is possible to purchase replacement TRE rubber boots. Last time I needed some I asked at my local Wilko's. Think they were £2 each.
Just for future reference

[Brianmoooore]

Since the MOT regs. were changed a couple of years ago, to include split boots as a reason for failure, they have become readily available from motor factors, etc.
Before the change, the only source I knew of was from kit car bits suppliers.