steering

[Lizzzz]

The mechanic did mention about changing both shock absorbers. Just before I bought the car, turns out the previous owner had had one replaced. That's only been on the car 6 months so the mechanic just replaced the other (broken) one.

The garage has ordered the part so should be done early next week. No power steering, the car is nearly 18.

Today it was just the same, OK for a few miles then suddenly terribly heavy steering. And it was always heavier on first starting up, sort of freed itself after a bit of wrestling with it.

L

 

[Lizzzz]

Sorry, accidentally started a new topic! This corresponds with the Fiesta steering thread.

 

[Burnerman]

Just a thought Liz - forgotten at the time by me but you did mention that your car had had numerous suspension bits fitted.....
When the springs are removed from the front struts (to replace shock absorbers etc) it is very important to see that the top swivel bearing is free and able to rotate. If you can visualise this, the spring and strut turns left and right with the steering. Therefore, there has to be a bearing at the top of the strut, just under the inner wing, that allows this to happen. Often these bearings are rusted away or simply forgotten because 'mechanics' don't know they are there. can you ask yours if they were checked? They are called 'strut top bearings'.
Its usually best to change shocks and springs in pairs - especially if the car is elderly and its a safe bet that they are kaput. Most of us don't bother though - and that includes main stealers.
John