- My model of MX-5 is: MX5 MK2.5
- I’m based near: Portsmouth
- I’m looking for technical help or recommendations on: Sorting this clunking noise!
Hi all,
I’ve got a persistent steering clunk/popping noise on my MX5 NB, which occurs whilst steering with the engine running. It also causes the steering to feel slightly notchy whilst driving. The clunk happens when the wheels are at any angle, but only happens when turning a few degrees either side of the stationary point.
There doesn’t seem to be play in any ball joints/ARB. When you feel around for the knock, it’s most evident when touching the rack underneath where the UJ meets the rack. It can also be felt when holding on to the track rod ends, but they don’t seem to have any play.
A mate and I came to the conclusion that the noise is from inside the rack itself, potentially slop in the pinion. I’ve tried tightening the pre-load using the adjuster, which helped the noise go away, but then the steering is too tight, so have to back it out to where the noise was originally. Does anyone know a fix for this?
Does this mean I should get a new rack? It’s worth noting this was a re-conditioned rack that’s just been fitted.
TIA