Steering Coupling, Rack To Column

[Marlin]

Looking for some feedback as per the topic description.

We have an S13 where the factory "rubber and four bolt with plastic spacers" coupling is quite worn, creating a fair bit of slop. I've since investigated my 32 and it too has some play there, though not dramatic.

Does anyone have thoughts on replacing this item with either;

A. A new factory item.

o,r B. An aftermarket billet piece.

My initial perception is that that factory is best, as I have a hunch that having this coupling solid will transfer rack rattle into the rack itself, wearing the rack prematurely as opposed to the coupling absorbing it.

Does the perceived "benefit" to more direct steering feel outweigh the concern I have?

Thanks in advance gents

[warps]

I wouldn't be replacing a rubber coupling with solid, as this won't allow any misalignment at all. The rattles / NVH transmission wouldn't be a major drama though.

I don't know if there are harder rubber units available, or whether you can replace it with a different type of coupling (spider / uni etc). The RX2 had a spider coupling which I rebuilt with poly cushions. It tightened up the coupling, but unfortunately the rest of the RX2 steering system was made of camembert, so the thing still had terrible steering feel (despite rebuilding / replacing everything that could be unbolted).

[PHaT MR30]

I had one in my s13, it was a real FUN job to get out.

It did sharpen the steering up and didn't present any major vibration/feedback. However i didn't replace if fo this reason, it was more to do with a clearance issue with the slack of the column on the starter motor.

Notec used to make a replacement urethane type, but since the merger with whiteline/red ranger I can't locate them.

[sav man]

I've put a billit one in mine, but havn't got to use it yet... mainly cause it came in the box of bits in the car. But all the people I spoke to who have used them said it improves the wheel feel. The old one usually ends up flying accross the work shop when you go to remove it

[Victory]

I would suggest that the factory unit is there to reduce MVH in the steering wheel and reduce noise transfer to the cabin from the front suspension. I cannot see how it would impact on the operation of the rack or cause undue wear in the steering to replace it with something more substantial.

In our R32 we have replaced it with a billet alloy unit which seems to make the steering feel more direct. In my R33 build I am tossing up between another billet unit and one of the urethane replacement ones - either way it will not be another factory item.

[badhairdave]

I have a solid in my s13 with no power steering.

Any rack rattle, brake shudder, ripple strip hits all gets transferred straight into my hands

It's not a mod i'd do in anything street driven.

[Marlin]

Thanks guys!

I think we'll put a urethane one in the S13, and I'm going to leave the 32 as is. If it aint broke, don't fix it