I need some help here!

This is what's going on: My Z is running great and everything is normal except that when I make left turns there is a soft squeaking sound. I went under the car and found that the right (passenger) side outer tie rod is loose. Can anyone tell me whether I it's the tie rod that needs changing, or is it a loose balljoint....or am I completely off? Thanks!

Jack

 

Hmmm...I still haven't figured out the problem yet. I'm not even sure if I'll be able to fix it myself...hope it doesn't get any worse! Please help me with whatever expertise you may have in this area if you think you know what the problem may be. Also, how difficult would it be for a novice mechanic such as myself to perform? Thanks!

 

Well first of all, your outer tie rods shouldn't be loose.
Now, about your squeek...
Check for worn sway bar bushings, and tension rod bushings. Put the car on ramps and have a look underneath while someone else is turning the wheel. Watch the mount bushings on your steering rack to see if they shift or move. These are the ones that hold the rack to the crossmember, on either side of the oil pan. Try and do this with it running as it will be easier to turn the wheel. Make sure the ramps you're on are sturdy and that whoever's inside doesn't put it into gear and run over you. If your ramps are metal, then sprinkle some sand or dirt on the area where the tire will sit, otherwise you wont' hear your squeaking problem over the squeak of your tires on the ramp. You might try water but that might make it worse.

If you've got polyurethane bushings, you may need to lube them with some silicone grease. Poly bushings are usually some color - not black, but they do come in black also. They're a good bit harder then the stock rubber kind.

It's not much to go on, but hope this helps.

Spot