Shake Shake Shake.. My Front end Shakes

[andru1313]

Ok... I finally got rid of my crap wheels that were the wrong offset and causing me issues. I went back to Stock B5 S4 rims. Now I am really noticing the front end shacking and there is a wobble when i hit a bump. Like quick shake in the steering wheel different than if the car is out of alignment. I did check and the drivers side upper tie rod boot is worn away. But i think it is more than just a bad tie rod. I was thinking of buying this complete set but really don't want to spend the money. Dealer wants 444 bucks just to do the one side tie rod. Umm F that. here is the kit i am looking at http://www.purems.com/products/product.php/II=1869
Do you guys think this will solve most of the issue? I run a Stasis Street Set up
The front end just doesn't feel very solid. Also how hard is this to install myself? Thanks

[RolledMySTi]

Suspension work is as easy as it gets. You should be able to install that with a jack and hand tools. $444 for a tie rod is a rip.

[andru1313]

Suspension work is as easy as it gets. You should be able to install that with a jack and hand tools. $444 for a tie rod is a rip.

yah no kiddin. then another 150 for an alignment. Fthat. So do you think that this kit will solve my issue. I have done a ton of suspension installs on VW's Looks easier on the audi. But never did it. Is this kit worth 660 bucks?

[The_Jerbel]

Is the clunk in the steering wheel or do you feel it under your feet?

[andru1313]

Steering wheel and bad.

[The_Jerbel]

Steering related. Probably tie rod end that's really toast, or perhaps something more severe, like rack problems.

[RolledMySTi]

Tie rods are a common problem. I know I have had to replace mine. Check and see if the rubber on them is torn.

[andru1313]

Tie rods are a common problem. I know I have had to replace mine. Check and see if the rubber on them is torn.

Yah like I said in the OP driver side is completely torn away.

[The_Jerbel]

Replace it then and see if the problem is resolved.

[BurnAll4S4]

rubber boot being ripped doesnt not determine if a tie rod is bad.

jack up the front end of the vehicle. shake the wheel left to right, up and down. if you feel play, inspect accordingly while someone shakes the wheel to determine what is bad.

typically:
left/right = tie rod (inner or outer)
up/down = ball joint (upper or lower)
both = wheel bearing

[andru1313]

Ok thanks if it wasn't raining i would have it up on a jack but i don't have a garage so no go. guess it is going to have to wait a bit.

[The_Jerbel]

True, but if the boot is torn you'll have to replace the tie rod end eventually anyways.

rubber boot being ripped doesnt not determine if a tie rod is bad.

jack up the front end of the vehicle. shake the wheel left to right, up and down. if you feel play, inspect accordingly while someone shakes the wheel to determine what is bad.

typically:
left/right = tie rod (inner or outer)
up/down = ball joint (upper or lower)
both = wheel bearing

[andru1313]

Ok I replaced my tie rod ends. I still am having issues. My front end still shakes. When I hit 80 mph and above front end shakes as well as when i hit a bump. Now I know my upper control arm bushings are starting to wear. but i am also noticing when it is warm out when i turn the wheel it makes a bit of noise she turning it not from the pump but kinda sound like the steering column. I am getting so fed up with this car. Any one have any suggestions? I don't want to replace my control arms to find out its the steering column.

[andru1313]

TTT anyone? i am also hearing a rattle when I hit a bump.. sounds like from under the car... from the front.

[stevea6/z28]

possible ball joint also.Like said check on jack for side to side and up and down.Are your tires balanced?Just trying to think of all the basics.

[andru1313]

Ok I am just thinking of taking the plunge and ripping the car apart. I am pretty broke right now so want to make the best use of my cash. I was going to save some money by just replacing the bushings on the upper control arms.

any thought on this procedure? I did this on my R32 on the rear control arms and it was a major pain in the ballz. but if I can save myself 400 bucks or so Its worth it. Post up your thoughts on this thanks.

[Sleeeper X]

Use the ebay, kit. Alot of people are happy with the quality + its only 300-400 for a full kit.

[s4quattro187]

If I were you, id go have the tires balanced and check'd for bends. 80+ sounds like a balance issue or minor bend in the wheel you wouldn't feel tell higher MPH.

[andru1313]

If I were you, id go have the tires balanced and check'd for bends. 80+ sounds like a balance issue or minor bend in the wheel you wouldn't feel tell higher MPH.

Yes I am going to do that but it still doesn't solve the shake issue when i hit a bump. I just know something doesn't feel right up there. super sloppy

[dc878mmm]

I'm guessing your car didn't do that before you put the aftermarket wheels with the bad offset on. Since its unlikely that your stock wheels were bent during storage, its gotta be the suspension.

[The_Jerbel]

Did you get an alignment and have the bump steer set?