Sensitive Steering and ball joint question

[Meanie]

Anyone know why the steering would seem very loose, meaning no effort needed to turn, and at higher speeds, it seems to sway just a wee bit but nonetheless, as if it's a windy day pushing the car around. Response is still there and there's no play in the steering wheel, but it used to be tighter.

Also, I recently replaced the ball joints and thought all was ok until I scheduled an alignment today. The mechanic tested the joints and saw much up and down play in the joint. The stem part of the knuckle which slides into the split hole slides up and down under load. Therefore, I brought her home and lifted to see if I installed correctly and I see no problem with my installation. There is a groove on the knuckle stem for the set bolt and that's where it rest, but I can move the joint upward when I have the car on stands which I know shouldn't happen. Did I simply not have the correct part?

Thanks

[Mooneggs]

I know that there are 2 different types of ball joints based on the year of the mx-3 but I don't think you could install the wrong one (I don't think it would fit)... it seems like you are on the right track by finding out that the ball joints have play...

I have recently experienced some issues with steering wheel play but I have yet to replace my ball joints. I see this post is a month old - have you figured out a solution?

[Meanie]

I know that there are 2 different types of ball joints based on the year of the mx-3 but I don't think you could install the wrong one (I don't think it would fit)... it seems like you are on the right track by finding out that the ball joints have play...

I have recently experienced some issues with steering wheel play but I have yet to replace my ball joints. I see this post is a month old - have you figured out a solution?

Ball joints are complete and I did discover the size difference. One is an 16mm for 92 and early 93 models, the other is an 18mm for the rest. I also discovered, which I believe, is a difference in manufacturer, the ball joint stem length. I purchased a set from one retailer and the stems weren't as long as the OEM. I put them on first only to discover there was still up and down play. I learned Moog and OEM are the best fit, therefore, found a retailer who sold the Moog for a great price and put them on and no more play. After that, I had a front wheel alignment, though, that did not correct my slight pull to the left and the sensitive steering or swaying motion. I'm still trying to figure that one out.

Thanks for the reply.

[Mooneggs]

have you checked your tie rod ends and control arms + endlinks as well? anything relating to those could affect steering...

of course there are other factors like radial pull - if you have new tires or tires wearing unevenly can be felt after an alignment since the tires are used to wearing a certain way... if your car is lowered, a negative camber can affect steering somewhat too... one last thing maybe a wheel bearing going bad? it's a stretch but possible...

[Meanie]

have you checked your tie rod ends and control arms + endlinks as well? anything relating to those could affect steering...

of course there are other factors like radial pull - if you have new tires or tires wearing unevenly can be felt after an alignment since the tires are used to wearing a certain way... if your car is lowered, a negative camber can affect steering somewhat too... one last thing maybe a wheel bearing going bad? it's a stretch but possible...

Tie rod ends are fine, air pressure in tires are equal, brakes and calipers are free moving. The tires are new, but I don't believe that's the problem as I have felt the sensitivity prior to the new tires. The mechanic checks for all front parts prior to the alignment otherwise, he will not do it, which is how I learned of the first set of ball joints still moving. I was thinking the front struts, but I would think the mechanic would have said something if their was a problem, though you never know. The car is not lowered and is all stock. I never considered the wheel bearing, um wait, what wheel bearing? The parts which run through my mind are the struts, CV Joints but they usually make a noise when going bad and besides, they have about 70,000 miles on them, the steering gears and/or other steering components.

Being at a lost, I believe I will take it in for a check. If it's something I can fix, I will, if not, I'll consider the expense and seriousness of the problem and have them fix it.

Thanks again

[wytbishop]

sounds like the anti-sway bar is not doing it's job to me.

[Meanie]

sounds like the anti-sway bar is not doing it's job to me.

is that part of the steering or suspension? You're not referring to the stabilizer bar, are you?

[wytbishop]

Yes the stabilizer bar. Could be a broken end link or a broken chassis bushing.

[Meanie]

I'll have to check the chassis bushing since the links are less than a year old and they were fine when I installed the ball joints.

Thanks