Au Wagon Massive Steering Shudder

[bookascool1]

Hey FordForums people

This is my first post/thread, thought I might give the collective intelligence of FordForums a try.

Anyway on my 2000 AU Wagon Forte (4sp Auto) I get massive shuddering, generally while parking. Only when I steer into a full lock when going slowly/stationary, esp in reverse. The revs drop from ~800 to ~400 and the whole car shudders, especially the steering wheel. Then the car seems to 'realise' and the revs increase again and the shudder seems to lessen.

Can someone explain this to me? The cars done just under 200 000 k's, is this a sign of impending doom?

Thanks,
booksacool1

[5speedeb]

sounds like your up for a new steering rack buddy

[bodes-sh]

try the power steering switch first, it's a little round thing near where the steering shaft connects to the rack, also check the fluid level and make sure it's not leaking from anywhere

[JC]

Definitely P/S. Try topping up the fluid level first (it may be shuddering because it has no lubrication, and is therefore working overtime getting those wheels turning). Then P/S switch, but most likely it is the rack - they all go eventually. You can get a reco rack for around $400 fitted from most steering/suspension places, IIRC.

[bookascool1]

Well thanks for the suggestions.
The power steering fluid seems fine.
What does the power steering switch look like and what does it do?

And whats the average life expectancy of a steering rack, is it reasonably to replace one around 200 000 km?

Thanks

[au2sw]

yup, first things first, check your fluid level. if its low, top it up and have a look around the hoses for signs of leakage. a common place for a leak is the bottom hose of the pump has a 'O' ring that eventually does wear out and needs replacing. i know mine does at the moment and i really need to get onto that one of these days :hihi: try that first, if the shudders continue then check that the switch is ok and then finally the rack should be replaced. this order is the cheapest to mosty expensive order, and also the easiest form of elimination of the problem. good luck
col

[bodes-sh]

Originally Posted by bookascool1

Well thanks for the suggestions.
The power steering fluid seems fine.
What does the power steering switch look like and what does it do?

And whats the average life expectancy of a steering rack, is it reasonably to replace one around 200 000 km?

Thanks

the switch is a little round thing with a wire hanging out the top of it, next to where the steering shaft meets the rack. its purpose is to adjust the amount on pressure in the rack depending on engine load and speed