How to get more responsive steering?
Thread Starter
TECH Addict
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 2,189
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From: Glendale, CA
How to get more responsive steering? I drove my friend's M3 and the steering on that thing was very nice and tight... way more responsive than my Z28. Is there any way we can make ours more responsive?
Re: How to get more responsive steering? A performance alignment helps alot. Due to weight and suspension design, an F-body will never be a BMW...but it can be alot closer. I'd set the alignment at -.7 to -1.0 degrees of camber, 4.5 degrees of castor and 0 toe (not in or out). The results will be amazing (even better with shocks and lowering springs, etc). I am running a more aggressive alignment than that and am getting 20,000 miles out of front tires (which I consider reasonable). That should get you started....GOod luck!
Re: How to get more responsive steering? I looked at your list of mods and didn't note the install of Sub Frame Connectors. If you don't yet have them they would greatly improve the control of you're very modified suspension. Great difference. You might also try the Drive Shaft Safety Loop or the BMR tunnel Brace. Either one will connect the two SFCs and greatly stiffen the car. After that its a trip to the road course w/four Hoosier race tires!!!
Re: How to get more responsive steering? I agree. I find the steering to be balky and a little on the stiff side. Now, I'm not talking about Cadillac feel. Something faster, and smoother, would be better on the street if you have to swerve to avoid hitting an animal.
TECH Fanatic
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 1,248
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From: Oklahoma
Re: How to get more responsive steering? Nobody really answered the question, a good alignment and chassis mods will help yes, but what about the actual steering? I dont have any idea how power steering works (sad eh?), but couldnt it be possible to modify the pump to work a little harder? Or am I way outa line?
Id love to have an easy turning wheel, but I just dont know how.
TTT for ya.
Id love to have an easy turning wheel, but I just dont know how.
TTT for ya.
Re: How to get more responsive steering?
I dont have any idea how power steering works (sad eh?), but couldnt it be possible to modify the pump to work a little harder? Or am I way outa line?
Id love to have an easy turning wheel, but I just dont know how.
Id love to have an easy turning wheel, but I just dont know how.
The pump already pushes 3 times the amount of fluid the rack needs to operate. Thats why people get underdrive pullies (don't pump so much to keep from burning up). Also there is a modified pump around that reduces the amount of fluid even more to save power and run cooler.
To make the "rack" faster, you would have to change the internal ratio (pinnion to rack ratio). Also, power steering racks already have faster (not easier) ratios than manual racks. The manual rack has a higher ratio (more turns lock to lock) to make up for not having the power assist.
alignment will make it more responsive.....so will rod ends on everything and making the car light...
if you want it "easier" to turn....
1) get smaller tires on the front (won't handle but will be "easy" to turn)
2) lighten up the front end (good for more than just turning...).
One thing that did help some was a different steering wheel. By giving up the air bag, it reduced weight (to turn) and made it a little easier.
