Wobble/wiggle
 

I notice that the SVX will occasionally feel like it is wiggling or wobbling in a turn. I don't feel this all the time, which is odd. I'm thinking it is more me not having a feel for the car yet. Perhaps it is hugging the slight bumps in the turns where I notice it where my old Outback would just bounce over them or roll.

The best way I can describe it is that it feels like I have 4 wheel steering.

Re: Wobble/wiggle
 

Since no one has answered you, I guess ill chime in.
Mine doesn't wiggle/wobble in corners.

Bump for more advise for his wiggle/wobble.

(Mine did used to feel like it was floating, going where ever it wanted in corners...
I replaced the tie rod ends, ball joints, and front swaybar endlinks.
I Also installed new BontragerWorks rear swaybar kit.
Now it feels like a Subaru again.)

Re: Wobble/wiggle
 

With the radio off, can you hear any knocking/grinding/rubbing noises when the steering wheel dances?

Re: Wobble/wiggle
 

No, no noises that I have noticed. It probably is more of the floating feeling that was suggested.

Re: Wobble/wiggle
 

Time for new struts from the sound of it. And/or tierods.

Re: Wobble/wiggle
 

Is there an easy way to test the struts and are the tie rods visible? If so what would I be looking for?

Re: Wobble/wiggle
 

You can visually inspect the struts and see if there's evidence of fluid leaking out. Its a thin oil so it will leave a wet or dark trail long after the fluid is gone. You can also press down hard on the rear bumper and see how long the car rocks after you let go. It should bounce right up and stop moving immediately. If it keeps rocking even for second, the struts are bad.

Tie rods you can tell by lifting the front wheel off the ground and shaking it side to side, it will clunk a little bit and you will feel slight play. You can even see where it connects to the steering knuckle and watch for movement there.

Re: Wobble/wiggle
 

Thanks Chris, that is what I recall about testing struts and shocks. Easy enough.

On the tie rods, when you say side-to-side, do you mean in and out or do you mean turning the wheel like it would turn when the steering wheel is turned?

Re: Wobble/wiggle
 

Grab the wheel at 9 and 3 o'clock. Push and pull like you're steering a bike, not a car.

Re: Wobble/wiggle
 

OK, I think I know what you mean. I was unclear about the steering thing. I meant that you are trying to move the wheel the same way it would be moved if the steering wheel were being turned. It sounds like that is what you are describing. Push with one hand and pull with the other. Thanks.

Re: Wobble/wiggle
 

bingo,.,.,

Re: Wobble/wiggle
 

http://i923.photobucket.com/albums/a...g?t=1283906507
This is from behind the front left tire, if that helps you visualize the area.
Red = tie rod end
Blue = ball joint
Green = Swaybar endthing
Yellow=caliper bolt (which is useless to you but was already marked, so oh well)

Link to my Rear Swaybar thread, http://www.subaru-svx.net/forum/showthread.php?t=54963
Mine was very bad shape, its endlinks and bushing were toast.
It just jiggled around and did nothing, sometimes the rear end felt like it was a trailer...

Re: Wobble/wiggle
 

Nice pictures. Thanks. Where in CT are you?

Re: Wobble/wiggle
 

I have been feeling some jerkyness in the front suspension so I checked the wheel for play today. It seems I have some side to side movement on the drivers side. Based on this thread it would appear that I may need a new Tie Rod End on that side.
Is this something that should be changed in pairs or is it OK to just do one side? Also is this something relatively easy to change or is it difficult or best left to a pro?

Re: Wobble/wiggle
 

There is an inner tie rod end, and an outer tie rod end, and they are different left and right sides.
Its also a Subaru only part.
For the inner tie rod it takes special wrenches.
The outer is easier.
The most important thing is to count the amount of revolutions that it takeas to remove it, usually around 16-18 and install the new one to the same spec.
Bring it on down and I can show you how!:D




They are MUCH easier on a lift!