In detail: DIY repair of a steering rack on a Lacetti from a real master for the site my.housecope.com.
The control system of many modern cars is based on a combination of MacPherson strut and steering rack. Both mechanisms were developed at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century (the final version of the suspension was presented in the forties of the 20th century, but it first appeared on the drawings in the 1900s). Now this system is very common, but not used in luxury cars, for example. But for the production of crossovers and middle-class cars, such a scheme is ideal. One of the striking examples is the control system and steering rack of the Chevrolet Lacetti.
Despite the fact that this car is now discontinued, it still remains one of the most popular models in its class. Therefore, issues such as repairing the Lacetti steering rack, the price of this action and its process are quite relevant.
This unit of the car transfers the force from the steering wheel to the steering wheels and provides a change in the trajectory of the car depending on the movement of the steering wheel. This effect is achieved through the interaction of the following details:
- shaft-rail
- internal and external oil seals
- distributor
- crankcase
- support sleeve
- retaining ring
What should you pay attention to? The owners of this Chevrolet model most often complain about the backlash of the steering mechanism. Also from the side of the steering wheel may appear:
- "Bite"
- spontaneous steering wheel rotation
- its rotation too tight
- difficult return to zero position
Another proprietary problem is the rapid wear of the mechanical parts of the rack. If this happens, you will hear and feel:
 |
Video (click to play). |
- a dull knock from under the hood in the left front of the car
- metallic knocking that echoes throughout the body
- recoil to the steering wheel; when driving on uneven roads, strong shaking of the steering wheel is possible
- sometimes after stopping, oil spots may appear under the front left wheel
All the details that make up the Lacetti steering rack can cause trouble:
- The distributor housing may wear out. This occurs when the distributor rings rub against the inner surface of the housing.
- Destruction of the sleeve. Typically, this part will wear out after driving on rough roads.
- The destruction of the central tooth of the shaft-rack awaits all cars after about 150 thousand km. mileage.
These are the most typical breakdowns, the likelihood of which cannot be reduced. So, driving exclusively on roads on which there are no minor obstacles is, in principle, impossible in our country. It is also unrealistic to save the central tooth of the rack-shaft from inevitable destruction. This part wears out when the car travels in a straight line. And it is this trajectory that the driver adheres to almost all the time.
There are also more rare malfunctions that occur when the car is used carelessly. For example, shaft-rack corrosion occurs if water gets inside the car. Or if a poor-quality repair was made.
To determine exactly whether the Lacetti steering rack needs repair, a diagnosis should be made. To fully check the status of the node, you will have to contact a car service. But you can check it yourself beforehand. To do this, you need to drive the car onto a lift or a pit, fix the wheels in a straight position and perform the following steps:
- measure the free play of the steering wheel. It should be less than 5 degrees
- shaking the steering wheel in different directions, make sure there is no knocking
- after hanging the front wheels, pull them towards you and away from you, placing your hand on the tip of the rail. Should not feel free running
If the diagnostics showed that the rail is faulty, you can try to adjust the mechanism. To do this, leave the machine fixed and find the adjusting screw. Pulling it up, you need to keep track of the following points:
- backlash
- knocking
- screw tightening force
Often, after carrying out diagnostics, it turns out that the wear of the internal parts of the rail is small and, in order to get rid of minor backlashes, it is enough to make an adjustment. This procedure consists in tightening a certain adjusting nut. It is fast and cost effective.
Professional renovation includes:
After the repair, you will definitely be given a guarantee for the work performed.
In order to prolong the safe operation of the car, follow a few time-tested and people-tested rules:
- When repairing, check which screeds have been placed on the anthers. They don't have to be plastic. Otherwise, corrosion of the shaft-rack and complete replacement of the unit.
- Inevitable damage when driving on uneven roads can be reduced by driving carefully on them. You also need to smoothly drive tram rails and speed bumps.
- Try to avoid long-term parking, especially in humid locations.
Be attentive to the condition of your car, repair it on time and then the ride will always be comfortable and safe!
If you are interested in how to properly repair a Chevrolet Lacetti steering rack, we recommend watching a training video created on the basis of our specialized car service.
In the process of work, the master used special tools and equipment of Ukrainian production TM "MSG equipment", which is represented by the company "Master Service".
A repair kit for replacing worn-out components is selected in the product catalog of the Italian company "Emmetec".
The sequence of actions for repairing the steering rack Chevrolet Lacetti
The anthers of the steering rods, which are attached to its ends, are responsible for the condition of the steering rack; it is the anthers that protect the working part of the rack, as well as the gear shaft from dust, moisture and sand. In the end part of the rack housing, there are protective seals that prevent the leakage of oil, which is inside the rack housing. In addition, they do not allow dust and moisture to get inside, this is in case the steering rack anthers fail.
The influence of moisture can also cause irreparable damage to the steering rack, corrosion destroys the working surface of the shaft, and sand prevents normal rotation. The result of this tandem is oil leakage, after which the shaft runs dry, being damaged and out of order. Steering rack repair it is possible, however, not always cost-effective, specialists perform complex work in the form of a shaft groove on a coordinate machine, after which they install a set of oil seals of a slightly larger diameter. In the case of severe mechanical damage, for example, a large impact in the form of a pit or a bump on the road, the straightness of the steering rack shaft is often violated, after which the steering rack is completely out of order and requires immediate replacement.
Today, I will tell you about how to replace the steering rack Chevrolet Lacetti do it yourself in case of failure. In order to repair the steering rack, it will take about 2-3 hours, provided that you know how to hold the key in your hands and distinguish the "balonnik" from the "adjustable" one. This work requires a lift or, at worst, a viewing pit. If there is neither one nor the other, you can use pads or jacks, in general, your task is to hang out the front of the car.
By instrument. No special tools are required, except perhaps a puller for steering tips.
one.Remove engine protection (if equipped).
2. Remove the boot from the new shaft and put more grease under it as shown in the photo. You can use almost any silicone-based grease that does not corrode rubber as a lubricant.
Replacing the steering rack of a Chevrolet Lacetti with your own hands
3. Now put the boot back.
4. Some operations will have to be performed from above, that is, under the hood.
5. Unscrew the bolt in the connection of the steering shaft, as well as its shank on the steering rack.
6. Next, using a syringe, remove excess fluid from the power steering reservoir (GUR).
7. This completes all work in the engine compartment.
8. Raise the front of the vehicle using one of the options listed above.
10. In the area of the right side member on the subframe, it is necessary to unscrew the bolt of the bracket holding the power steering tube.
Replacing the steering rack of a Chevrolet Lacetti with your own hands
11. Now you can unscrew the two power steering hose fittings from the steering rack.
12. Prepare an empty container, as some of the liquid may overflow from the system.
13. Now you can start partial disassembly of the suspension, this is necessary in order to remove the subframe.
14. Using WD-40 fluid, machine all threaded joints: ball joints, stabilizer links, engine mounts, tie rod ends, and so on.
15. Unscrew the nuts of the ends of the ball joints.
16. Unscrew the ball joint pins fastening bolts, then remove them from the connection with the stabilizer link post.
Replacing the steering rack of a Chevrolet Lacetti with your own hands
17. Using a puller, press out the steering end pins.
18. The connection between the ball joint and the hub is usually disengaged without much effort.
19. Remove the two lower engine mount retaining bolts, then remove it completely.
20. Next, you need to remove the transverse rail, for this you need to unscrew the four bolts.
21. Carefully loosen the three nuts that secure the front exhaust pipe flange to the catalytic converter and the support bracket to the engine block.
22. Disconnect the lambda probe connector on the frame under the radiator. Hang the entire front exhaust pipe in a convenient place.
23. All that remains to do is dismantle the subframe, this can be done by unscrewing the mounting bolts, but do not rush to unscrew the bolts completely, leave a few threads.
24. Install the special support under the subframe and now completely unscrew the four mounting bolts.
25. Here you need an assistant, whose task is to disconnect the connection of the shank and the steering shaft on the rail with a screwdriver.
26. Thoroughly spray the joints with WD-40 fluid, and in the meantime, slowly lower the subframe down. This phase can be considered completed, consider that the subframe together with the stabilizer and the rail are removed!
27. Unscrew the four mounting bolts that steering rack attaches to the subframe.
Replacing the steering rack of a Chevrolet Lacetti with your own hands
28. For prophylaxis, remove the stabilizers and lubricate the rubber bushings with the same grease, this will eliminate the likelihood of squeaks of the suspension, in addition, the very operation of the suspension will significantly improve, and the ride will become more comfortable and soft.
29. Take a new steering rack and assemble everything in the reverse order. During installation, do not forget to remove the plugs from the power steering holes. We lubricate everything properly with sealant in those places where it is needed, the connection between the catalyst and the exhaust pipe flange must be lubricated with graphite grease.
Now you know how to replace the steering rack, it remains to pour fluid into the power steering tank and bleed the system, for this you need to turn the steering wheel with the engine running, first as much as possible to the left and then all the way to the right. Also, do not forget to do the camber.
Chevrolet Lacetti Steering Rack Replacement - Completed! Hope you succeed. Thank you for your attention, be careful on the roads!
Based on the operating experience of the owners of the Chevrolet Lacetti, one of the problem areas of this car is the steering rack. Immediately after buying a new car, tapping is heard in the front suspension while driving on small bumps. Complaints to dealers do not lead to anything. Even warranty replacement steering rack Chevrolet Lacetti does not solve the problem, the knocks remain.
In most cases from knock on the steering rack Chevrolet Lacetti you can get rid of by tightening just two screws.
- We tighten the screw on the slotted steering wheel in the car
- We tighten the bolt by 10 in the engine compartment. In the picture, these bolts can be seen at node # 2. Chevrolet Lacetti steering rack devices.
In cases where the above adjustments did not have a positive effect or knocking steering rack Lacetti appeared during the period of long-term operation of the car, which indicates the failure of the rail elements, which means it is time to replace it with a new or restored one.
- If you decide to purchase a new steering rack, here is its catalog number and the rack itself.
- We unpack and remove the boot from the shaft and put plastic silicone grease under it that does not cause rubber swelling
We remove the steering gear for repair or replacement, as well as when replacing steering rods.
We set the front wheels to the position of the straight-line movement of the car.
We press out the fingers of the ball joints of the steering rod ends from the lugs of the steering knuckles (see Replacing the steering rod end).
Disconnect the intermediate pipe from the catalytic converter of the exhaust system (see Removing the intermediate pipe).
Remove the rear support of the power unit (see Replacing the support of the power unit).
We unscrew the bolt of the terminal connection of the fork of the lower cardan joint of the intermediate shaft with the shank of the steering gear shaft and loosen the bolt of the terminal connection of the fork of the upper cardan joint of the intermediate shaft with the steering shaft (see Removing the intermediate shaft of the steering).
Using the "10" head, unscrew the bolt securing the drain line tube holder to the front suspension subframe.
Before disconnecting the pipes of the hydraulic lines from the steering gear housing, place a container under the crankcase to collect the fluid.
Using the "18" key, unscrew the union of the discharge line tube and the union of the drain line.
We remove the tips of the pipes of both lines from the holes of the steering gear housing and insert plugs of a suitable diameter into the holes of the pipes and the crankcase.
The ends of the pipes are sealed in the crankcase with rubber rings.
Using a spanner wrench or a "14" head, we unscrew the nut and bolt of the bracket for attaching the pipe of the steering box crankcase to the subframe.
Remove the bracket for securing the steering box crankcase pipe.
Using a spanner wrench or a "14" head, unscrew the nut and bolt securing the mechanism housing to the subframe.
We substitute an adjustable stop under the front suspension subframe and unscrew the front nuts and the rear subframe mounting bolts (see Removing the subframe).
We lower the subframe on the stop to a height of 60–70 mm so that the studs of the front attachment of the subframe do not completely protrude from the holes in the subframe (this will allow you to more accurately center the subframe during its subsequent installation).
When lowering the subframe, we remove the shank of the pinion shaft from the lug of the intermediate shaft fork.
We take out the steering gear together with the steering rods.
We carry out the installation of the steering mechanism in the reverse order.
Before installing the steering gear, we set the middle position of the rail (straight-line movement of the car). Tighten the bolts and nuts securing the pipe and the steering box housing to the subframe with the prescribed torques (see_Appendix).
Before connecting the pipes of the drain and delivery lines to the steering box housing, we check the condition of the rubber O-rings. If they are damaged (breaks, cracks, dents), replace the rings with new ones. Tighten the pipe fittings with the prescribed torques (see Appendices).
Fill the power steering reservoir with working fluid and remove air from the system (see Bleeding the power steering system).
Remove the engine guard (if equipped) Remove the boot from the new shaft and put more grease under it as shown in the photo. You can use almost any silicone-based grease that does not corrode rubber as a lubricant.
Now put the boot back in. Some operations will have to be done from the top, that is, under the hood.
Unscrew the bolt in the connection of the steering shaft, as well as its shank on the steering rack.
Next, using a syringe, remove excess fluid from the power steering (power steering) reservoir.
This completes all work in the engine compartment.
Raise the front of the vehicle using one of the options listed above.
In the area of the right side member on the subframe, it is necessary to unscrew the bolt of the bracket holding the power steering tube.
Now you can unscrew the two power steering hose fittings from the steering rack.
Prepare empty containers as some of the liquid may spill out of the system.
Now you can start partial disassembly of the suspension, this is necessary in order to remove the subframe.
Using WD-40 fluid, machine all threaded joints: ball joints, stabilizer links, engine mounts, tie rod ends, and so on.
Unscrew the nuts of the ends of the ball joints.
Unscrew the ball joint pin retaining bolts, then remove them from the connection to the stabilizer link post.
Using a puller, press out the steering end pins.
The joint between the ball joint and the hub is usually disconnected without much effort.
Unscrew the two lower engine mount retaining bolts, then remove it completely.
Next, you need to remove the transverse rail, for this you need to unscrew the four bolts.
Carefully loosen the three nuts that secure the front exhaust pipe flange to the catalytic converter and the support bracket to the engine block.
Disconnect the lambda probe connector on the frame under the radiator. Hang the entire front exhaust pipe in a convenient place.
All that remains to do is to dismantle the subframe, this can be done by unscrewing the mounting bolts, but do not rush to unscrew the bolts completely, leave a few threads.
Place the special support under the subframe and now completely unscrew the four mounting bolts.
Here you need an assistant, whose task is to disconnect the connection of the shank and the steering shaft on the rail with a screwdriver.
Thoroughly spray the joints with WD-40 fluid, and in the meantime, slowly lower the stretcher down. This phase can be considered completed, consider that the subframe together with the stabilizer and the rail are removed!
Unscrew the four mounting bolts that secure the steering rack to the subframe. For prevention, remove the stabilizers and lubricate the rubber bushings with the same grease, this will eliminate the likelihood of squeaks of the suspension, in addition, the suspension performance itself will significantly improve, and the ride will become more comfortable and softer.
Now the actual replacement of the steering rack
Take a new steering rack and assemble everything in the reverse order. During installation, do not forget to remove the plugs from the power steering holes. We lubricate everything properly with sealant in those places where it is needed, the connection between the catalyst and the exhaust pipe flange must be lubricated with graphite grease.
Replacing the steering rack of a Chevrolet Lacetti with your own hands.Now you know how to replace the steering rack, it remains to pour fluid into the power steering tank and bleed the system, for this you need to turn the steering wheel with the engine running, first as much as possible to the left and then all the way to the right. Also, do not forget to do the camber.
Replacing the steering rack Chevrolet Lacetti is highlighted in our photo report. The steering rack is located quite "deep" behind several important elements, but this does not mean that it is not "loaded". In the process of movement, the steering rack receives a lot of serious loads and mechanical damage, in addition, it is not protected from the negative effects of the environment.
The anthers of the steering rods, which are attached to its ends, are responsible for the condition of the steering rack; it is the anthers that protect the working part of the rack, as well as the gear shaft from dust, moisture and sand. In the end part of the rack housing, there are protective seals that prevent the leakage of oil, which is inside the rack housing. In addition, they do not allow dust and moisture to get inside, this is in case the steering rack anthers fail.
Repair of the steering rack is possible, however, it is not always cost-effective, specialists perform complex work in the form of a shaft groove on a coordinate machine, after which they install a set of oil seals of a slightly larger diameter. In the case of severe mechanical damage, for example, a large impact in the form of a pit or a bump on the road, the straightness of the steering rack shaft is often violated, after which the steering rack is completely out of order and requires immediate replacement.
If we talk about the steering system, then the repair of this unit without the involvement of specialists is usually limited to replacing the steering rods and tips. Many are simply afraid to independently undertake the restoration of the rail itself, not without reason fearing that they may not be able to cope with this task. And the serviceability of the steering directly affects traffic safety. Meanwhile, repair the steering rack yourself by Chevrolet Lacetti quite possible. The main thing is to know how, what and in what order you need to do it.
Today we will talk about how to restore this car unit with little or no involvement of specialists. And if you have a desire buy steering rack for Chevrolet Lacetti, do not hurry. Perhaps everything is not so bad, and it is still possible to save this spare part with minimal costs. So, stock up on tools, a Litol type grease and start doing everything exactly as we will tell you now.
We will assume that there will be no problems with removing the rail - you can read about this in our other articles. Consider the order of disassembly, what needs to be changed and how to properly assemble the rail back.
- Checking the output on the rail, set it to the middle position and make marks on the distributor, so that during assembly it is easier to correctly align the rail. We measure the departure of the rail along the edges with a caliper.
We take out the plug distributor fastening, unscrew the fastening nut and remove the retaining ring.
By placing the guide on the shaft distributor, with a light tapping with a hammer through the adapter, take out the distributor and remove the outer gland from it.
Unscrew the side clamp nut. There is a spring under it - do not lose it.
|
Video (click to play). |
We thoroughly clean and rinse all the components of the disassembled rail. Oil seals and seals must be replaced after dismantling. We assess the condition of the shafts - the main shaft and the distributor shaft. If necessary, they can be given to a turner for grinding.After that, we proceed to the assembly of the rail in the reverse order. The glands must be pressed in using a special tool or homemade mandrels of a suitable diameter. Also, do not forget to grease the shaft, its teeth and the distributor gear with grease. A very important point: after installing the shaft, immediately put it in the middle position, and install the distributor according to the previously applied marks.
The Chevrolet Lacetti, which began production in South Korea in 2003, evokes mixed emotions among motorists.
Adherents of the Lacetti confirm that the meaning of this name justifies itself.
Celebrated modern and 
harmonious style, ease of use of the steering column, which is adjustable in height, easy reading of data from the instruments, high-quality finishing, spaciousness of the cabin, wide visibility, and much more. Also not in the last place is the ratio of price and quality, which did not go unnoticed on the Russian market. The Lacetti still has its own popularity among domestic motorists.
Opponents of the Lacetti note some shortcomings in technical characteristics. Among them, the vulnerability of steering racks is especially highlighted. All the owners of the Lacetti face the need to repair them. It can only arise almost immediately after purchasing a car, for others the mileage can reach up to 30 and even up to 80 thousand kilometers. It depends on many conditions.
The Lacetti are available with engines of various powers:
- 1.4 liters, 93 liters. With.;
- 1.6 liters, 109 liters. With.;
- 1.8 liters, 122 liters. With.
But regardless of the modification, improvements and options, both adherents are right, noting all the advantages, and opponents, indicating that the repair of the Lacetti steering racks will be required sooner or later.
Signs indicating that something is wrong with the steering rack will be found by anyone, even a novice driver.
1. The "naughty steering" effect
- starts to rotate by itself;
- turns with difficulty;
- "Has a snack".
All this points to the backlash of the steering mechanism.
It is distributed from the front left, and is given throughout the body. This indicates the wear of the Lacetti steering rack mechanics.
3. Excessive shaking of the steering wheel when driving over bumps
It is worth looking under the car for oil stains under the left wheel after stopping. The reason is the same worn-out mechanics (crankcase, distributor rings, bushing, etc.).
The trouble is that it is unlikely that it will be possible to exclude and even reduce the likelihood of these major breakdowns. Especially considering the state of the Russian roads. You also need to be prepared for the fact that the central tooth of the rack shaft will someday collapse from wear. Both external influences and driving on a straight road without long trajectory changes contribute to wear.
In addition to the natural causes of wear, the Lacetti's steering rack parts fail due to the negligent attitude of car owners to its condition. Corrosion is caused by water getting inside, loose fasteners, poor-quality parts, unscrupulous repairs.
One way or another, the steering rack diagnostics will tell exactly about the causes of the malfunctions.
This stage of work before repairing the rail, carried out independently, without contacting a specialized car service, is more of an inspection than a full-fledged diagnosis.
Inspection is carried out as follows
:
- The car is installed on an inspection pit or lift.
- The wheels are locked straight.
- The free wheel travel is measured. (Normally, it should be less than five degrees.)
- Checking the absence of knocking and free movement with hanging the front wheels.
- The adjusting screw is tightened or loosened while checking the backlash and knock.
The last stage is performed in the event of a problem during the diagnostic process. This simple adjustment may be enough to fix the problem. But even if the signs of the problem disappear, you should not reassure yourself with this.On the example of a person's illness - antipyretic drugs may well temporarily eliminate the symptoms, but there is still a long way to go from cure. That is, it is better to insure yourself, not relying on your "healers" meager knowledge, but trusting an experienced "doctor".
There are no fundamental differences in the procedure for repairing and replacing steering racks between the Lacetti of different modifications. The repair steps are carried out in the same order. The same tools and equipment are used. The difference lies in the dimensions and markings of the parts.
One of the most difficult stages of a renovation is its beginning. In order to simply remove the steering rack, you need to raise the front of the car, remove the engine crankcase, steering tips, stabilizer struts, ball to the steering knuckle, upper tubes from the power steering, subframe, etc. In addition, the complexity lies in the need to be careful so as not to inadvertently damage parts and assemblies, and to remember the order of their disassembly and removal for subsequent correct assembly.
After the rail is dismantled, you must:
- check toothed shaft for production;
- make a complete cleaning of all components;
- completely disassemble the rail (remove the plugs of the distributor fasteners, fastening nut, retaining ring, oil seal, distributor, etc.);
- replace worn parts and seals;
- assemble the steering rack according to the marks in the reverse order and prepare for testing.
toothed shaft for production;When all the problems have been eliminated, all procedures are also carried out in the reverse order.
In artisanal conditions, it will not be possible to make accurate diagnostics and repair of the Lacetti steering rack. There are a number of reasons for this:
- A private garage with professional equipment from a lift to a special stand is the exception rather than the rule.
- Rarely does any car enthusiast, even one who constantly provides car repair services for his friends, has a complete set of tools necessary for carrying out even minor repairs that can be done at the diagnostic stage.
- It is unnecessary to talk about the presence of a repair kit for each car from self-taught masters. Motorists most often have to look for the required parts themselves in the car market, via the Internet.
- Experience is the most important thing for diagnostics, which determines the strategy of subsequent repairs. Each brand, each model has its own differences and requires its own approach. This also applies to the repair of the Lacetti steering rack.
Experienced car enthusiasts recommend:
- After repairs, check which ties are supplied to the anthers. When installing plastic, corrosion of the rack shaft is possible, which will lead to repeated repairs pretty soon.
- When driving on bumps, it is worth moving at the lowest possible speed.
- Small elevations on the road (curb, speed bumps, rails) must be passed smoothly.
- Long-term parking in the open air leads to a faster failure not only of the steering rack, but also of all systems and mechanisms.
- Listen to your car. His behavior will indicate malfunctions and the need for repair.
When the car owner is worried about the Lacetti steering rack, the price of the repair becomes one of the first questions he asks along with the quality of the repair. The company "Auto-rail" specializes in the repair of this unit, so you don't have to worry about the efficiency of work.
.
The price of removal, installation and repair of the Lacetti steering rack by the craftsmen will be announced immediately after the diagnosis.
Our company also has a technology for the restoration of steering racks and power steering pumps, developed in cooperation with manufacturers of original parts.
We offer prompt and accurate diagnostics, and you can choose: repair or replace. “Fast, inexpensive, efficient,” - we hear such responses from our regular customers.
