RE:200T Suspension Problem

[Albert Ng <alng@purdue.edu>]

Hi there,

I had the same problem a while ago when my 5kcst has the bad steering rack.
It seems that the rack had some internal wear and caused the rack leak and 
loosen. And after a while I discovered the clunking noise, and the rack 
leaking even more serious. So after 15 cans of pentosin, I replaced the 
rack and the noise is gone. 

It's easy to check if the noise is related to the rack. 
1) Check if your rack has any leaks, if not you probably don't have to do 
   #2 
2) With the engine running and the car standing still, turn your steering 
   wheel lock to lock and hear if there is any clunking noise. If yes, 
   the noise can be from your steering rack.



HTH



Albert Ng
'87 5kcst 

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List experts:

Problem: 1990 Audi 200 - Clunking noise near or around driver's side
front wheel when hitting bumps.  Clunking is more noticeable when
turning left (essentially unweighting the driver's side and compressing
the passenger side).  The clunking is evident going over bumps while
going straight.  The clunking is not heard while turning right (driver
side is weighted ).  The clunking noise sounds like something is loose.

Investigation:  Jacked the car up and visually inspected control arms,
tie rod ends, struts.  They "appear" ok.  I tried pulling on the tire to
see if it was loose.  It wouldn't move.  I'm not an expert in suspension
related components, so what may appear "OK" to me may not be.  

What else can I check - and what are the proper procedures for
diagnosing this noise.  

Thanks for any suggestions.

Regards,