Getting sick of my rack end bushing clunk that won't go away no matter how many times I replace suspension parts. I have already tried ebay 'rebuilt' racks just to have the thing clunk as soon as I install it. I've even replaced the bushing in the new rack to have it clunk in a month flat.

Anybody have experience with buying an advance auto/Autzone rebuilt steering rack? Or 'new' ones off of ebay? Is there an aftermarket/performance rack worth its salt for daily driving?

I have a 90 Si hatch and I don't need/care for the variable rack. Any input is appreciated

 

Are you adjusting the pinion gearbox?

 

Yes sir. I have the rack adjustment tool and I tightened the 14mm bolt until I felt resistance, then backed it off 1/8-1/4 turn. Helped a whole lot with the steering wheel play, not so much for the clunking.

 

Does it clunk while it turns? Is that the symptom? Or always clunking?

 

Only over roads with light and wavy bumps. It sounds like a very light knocking chatter coming from the front passenger side, almost like tapping a fingernail on a wood table with moderate force.

https://honda-tech.com/forums/honda-crx-ef-civic-1988-1991-3/rack-end-bushing-keeps-exploding-3069529/

This was my post almost 2 years ago with the back story. I'm dead sure it's dirt and grit sanding down the rack end bushing from buying a bad ebay rebuilt rack. I've just finally gotten sick of it again to start thinking about buying a brand new rack, not a rebuilt one.

Any input on whole replacement racks? I am looking at a 'new' one on ebay for 200$.

Edit: I saw somebody replied on my old post about getting the new ebay one. Can anybody tell me if the new ebay ones last more than a year or two? I just want to set the car up and forget about it.

 

Try a new rack then. Your current one may be out of service limits, not cylindrical or bent even. So the plastic bushing can't do much to fix that.

I doubt you really feel the variable difference in the Si rack. But you can try a closer ratio rack from quaife.

I'd be curious to examine your old rack once its out. Lay it out on a flat table or straight edge and see if you see light.