So, as some may already know my steering rack went on Monday. I got a rebuilt one installed on Tuesday for $650 ....

So, now when I first start the van and go to move the steering it is sticking. REALLY hard to first move left. I should say that this only happens when moving from the center position. After that initial movement its smooth. Once driving it only makes a click/clunk noise everytime I pull it a little to the left from center.

It never did this before the new rack was installed. What do you guys think? Should I bring it back? I'd hate to blame them then find out it's something else on the van. I checked everything I could and can not locate exactly where it's coming from. Definitely traveling through the steering.

Think I should bring it back to Firestone?

 

Take it back. There are any number of reasons for this and none of them are good.

 

Just got back from Firestone. They were pretty cool about it. The mechanic was quick to defend his installation, but it seems to be the physical rack. When they placed it on the wheel pivots it moved fine.

They took off the tie rod ends and checked the struts. There was a little binding when they were fully extended but no problem with a load applied.

They checked the rack without any resistance from the struts, and there was no problems.

So, they decided to pull out the rack. As this was not happening before the rack was installed. Hopefully when everything goes back together it won't still do it. They're going to push it through a warranty claim.

I'll let everyone know what the final result was. Better not be a bill to me for labor because it was found to be something else.

 

Well, after another 5 hours in the shop, and a second rack installed everything is turning smooth now. Too bad I spent all my money and won't be able to attend the comp. tomorrow.