Re: Front suspension: Wimped out - went to a shop. New questions though

["jtrealtywebspannet" <jtrealty@xxxx>]

There is no disgrace in "wimping out". If you did exceed your 
abilities or those of your tools you could have seriously injured 
yourself or damaged your car. The trouble with too many mechanics is 
that they DO get themselves into situations that are beyond them (like 
doctors) and don't have the sense to ask for help or refer to another 
shop. The logic is you don't make money sending work away but in many 
cases they will wind up either overcharging the customer for more 
parts and time then the job needed or worse not even doing the work 
correctly.
To see if the tie rod ends are loose just jack up the front tires off 
of the ground and while someone holds the steering wheel still wiggle 
the wheel from side to side while watching the rod end for any lost 
motion. Chances are it is a combination of play in the rod end AND the 
rack. Another tip-off is a little lost motion in the steering wheel 
i.e. you can move the steering wheel 1/2-1 inch before you feel the 
car respond.
David Teitelbaum
vin 10757



-- In dmcnews@xxxx, "graves_14" <tylergraves@xxxx> wrote:
> Ended up going to a shop and I'm glad I did. The shop is experienced 
> with DeLoreans, but they had a heck of a time removing the old 
> springs from the front. They said it took three guys to get each one 
> out (which justifies the bill $$). The also had to cut one out. I'm 
> glad I didn't get to that point. The shocks, on the other hand, went 
> on without a hitch. Thanks for all your input though and I'm sure 
> someone going through the archives will find it helpful.
> 
> Now on to the new question. They claim that the inner tie rod ends 
> are lose. I've consulted two DMC vendors about this and they both 
> agree that I can't get the inner rods separately. SO, this means a 
> whole new rack. Anyone have any advice on replacing a rack? Can't be 
> any worse than those darn springs! Also, any feedback on the 
> differences between P.J. and Houston's racks? I know P.J.'s doesn't 
> come with tie rod ends, but Houston's does. This sounds like an $85 
> plus, but P.J.'s has more refurbishment. Choices choices choices...
> 
> Tyler 
> #3472