So today jacked up the TL and grabbed the wheel at the 3'0clock and 9'oclock positions and gave it some tugging and definitely play on part of the inner tie rods both sides but I'm stumped when doing so I noticed the rack had movement as well is this normal? oh btw it was only the driver's side corner that had rack movement. Could this confirm maybe a bad steering isolator bushing as well? Thanks for the input.

 

If you can move the wheel, w/o moving the steering wheel, or if you can move the steering wheel w/o wheel movement, I would agree that tie-rod ball joints (inner and/or outer) are loose. Both can be replaced fairly easily.

Note, make sure you are moving the rack steering wheel input shaft w/o wheel movement. It's also possible one of the two universal jts in steering column are loose.

It may be easier to separate the outer tie-rod ball joint and check the inner tie-rod ball joint for looseness by pulling/pushing. I think this would be much better way to confirm inner tie-rod looseness.

Not sure what you mean by "steering isolator bushing". I looked at shop manual and did not see anything like this. Is this part of steering column from steering wheel to rack?

good luck

 

I was thinking either #16 or #4 or even #14 & 15 on this page .....
http://www.acuraautomotiveparts.org/...s=&view=normal

 

I agree that rack movement due to worn mount bushings is possible. However the rack would have to be loose in the first place for the bushings to wear out.

I checked my rack recently and found everything secure. I had someone turn the vehicle steering wheel slightly (car was raised on ramps) while I observed the rack. Any looseness should be visible as rack pushes/pulls wheels to turn.

good luck

 

So worn out bushings is confirmed. Bushing #14 & clip #15 on the diagram are completely gone so the rack mount is swaying between chassis gap where bushings should be in place. These bushings are located in front and in back of the gear box so I've placed the order for them and cost me $40 for four bushings and four clips. Now TexasHonda if you would please possibly help with diagnosing how to go about placing these bushings? Could you look through the repair manual and maybe find some tips on how to replace these without removing the steering rack as I don't have a repair manual? I should receive the parts by this Tuesday. Thanks for your help once more.

 

It may not be that difficult (easy for me to say, since I don't have to do the job!).

PM your email address and I'll forward the removal sheets.

Good Luck

 

 

The Steering rack is removed downward after removing the shield.