So I bought a manual 3.0L TF for $700 a couple of months ago and I've been slowing fixing it up to get it roadworthy in my spare time. It was ridiculously filthy and had bits missing and damaged here and there. I've fixed up most of the issues, both cosmetic and mechanical ($1500 later, but still cheaper than buying a good condition TF) but one thing I haven't figured out is this steering issue.

The steering pulls to the left pretty badly. I have to maintain a bit of pressure on the wheel to keep the car going straight. The wheel is actually off centre too, as in, when the car is driving straight, the steering wheel is about 45 degrees to the right. I am hoping that these are caused by the same problem, I just don't know what it is.

The wheel alignment is most likely shot, and when I get tyres I'll be getting an alignment, but I didn't think alignment issues would cause the wheel to be off centre. All the suspension components appear to be in reasonable condition; one of the sway bar links was disconnected, but I fixed that.

Any ideas before I take it for RWC?

spend $60 and get an alignment. any decent shop will centre the wheel for you too.

cheers,
.wook

Get a proper alignment.
All 4 wheels.
Also make sure that you get a before and after print out of the suspension settings.


Pulling to the left can be corrected.

Red Ranger / Nolathane make a series of caster correction bushes for the Magna.

More caster on the LHS will reduce the pull to the left.

My AWD pulled always, so first I did the full caster kit from Whiteline when it was still available.

Ended up moving the top of the suspension struts BACK about 4 mm on the LHS to complete the fix.

Problem solved.

Gerry

It may very well be fixed by a wheel alignment, but the fact that the steering wheel is off centre suggests that there's actually something wrong with the steering rack. Doesn't it?

It may very well be fixed by a wheel alignment, but the fact that the steering wheel is off centre suggests that there's actually something wrong with the steering rack. Doesn't it?

No. $100 says your trip to an allignment place fixes both issues.

+ 1 for getting a wheel alignment

that will fix (if its a good wheel alignment being done) the pulling to the left, and should also fix the wheel off center.

if that doesnt fix it - then by them being under the car looking at stuff fixing it, they may be able to tell you whats wrong with it and needs repairing/replacing

Ok - should be doing that on Saturday, I'll report back.

check for bent components and stress marks on the suspension components the problems you are experiencing sound like the accident damage on my tl after i under-steered off the road at 80 kmph over a steep kerb

Sounds like accident damage to me too. Difficult to imagine normal wear and tear causing that much of a problem.

...or your car might have been bashed into roadside guttering too many times.