So, how can one tell when the plastic bushing is worn out on end of the steering rack? Does this occur regularly at a specific mileage? (car only has 56,000 miles) What are the symptoms? Rattle, binding, etc? I'd rather be able to diagnose the issue rather than just start replacing things that don't need it. Thanks for any help.

Best way is to remove the clamps on the boots on the ends of the rack. Slide boots back far enough to inspect. If the bushings are worn you be able to move the rack shaft in its bore. You will want to inspect each side with the rack turned all the way(extended) to the side you are looking in. This can be done by removing the wheels(on jack stands of course)and reaching in from the sides.
However see more problems with worn inner tie rod ends and worn (rubber mounting) bushings than the inner rack bushings. Both will cause play in the steering. The mounting bushings will wear due to age(dry rot, cracking) and will cause the rack to move in the clamps holding the rack on the subframe. Best inspected by removing the plastic tray(cover) under the spare wheel assembly. You can see them from under the car, but if you want to get a better view, remove the tray.

On my Formula I noticed the bushing was bad because my aftermarket rims were rubbing, even though they shouldn't have been. If the bushing is falling apart, the wheels will turn right (I think) more than they will left.
One other thing which may help is I remember that when I turned the wheel all the way to the right, it would stop, but if I forced it a little, you could sorta feel the plastic crush and the wheel would turn a little more. As opposed to the other side where it just stopped.

You can check the bushing easily by reaching down behind the radiator inboard of the overflow tank and grabbing the end of the tierod and seeing if there is any up and down movement. No disassembly required.

quote Originally posted by cmechmann: However see more problems with worn inner tie rod ends and worn (rubber mounting) bushings than the inner rack bushings. Both will cause play in the steering. The mounting bushings will wear due to age(dry rot, cracking) and will cause the rack to move in the clamps holding the rack on the subframe. Best inspected by removing the plastic tray(cover) under the spare wheel assembly. You can see them from under the car, but if you want to get a better view, remove the tray.

Where can I get replacement rubber or poly mounting bushings?

I'm NOT postive.... but I think the Fiero rack is an extended version of the Chevette rack.

So... the Chevette rack mount bushings may work (maybe size is different??) Anyone know?
(as a side note, I put new Chevette springs on the front of my 87 GT - works fine)

http://www.rockauto.com/dbp...d%2BPinion%2BBushing

Here's a picture of the Fiero rack bushing



Chevette power steering rack on a Fiero chassis



From here: http://www.mytajgarage.com/Suspension.html


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[This message has been edited by fierosound (edited 05-30-2013).]