Z3 Rack Problems

[LuckyHenriksen]

So I installed a remanufactured Z3 steering rack into an '87 325e along with new E30 tie rods, and had it aligned. Car drives straight and nice, but when turning there appear to be 'dead' or 'binding' spots in the steering. While you are cranking the wheel to one side or the other it all of a sudden stop, like you hit full lock, but there is still plenty left to turn.
Before installation of the new rack everything operated smoothly, the only issue was the leaking rack itself. New fluid reservoir and lines were also installed.
Any idea as to what is causing this? Anyone have similar experience?
Thanks

[drumad]

I'm pretty sure your coupler is binding up.

How did you mod your coupler? if at all. For any pre-airbag models you had to shorten it and I'm pretty sure your model e30 didn't come with airbags.

Your car operating smoothly pre-rack then not with a new rack leads me to believe your coupler is the culprit.

[LuckyHenriksen]

That is a good point that I had forgotten to mention, thanks.

I cut the spacer apart and reassembled it using the E30 tech spacer kit, but didn't do any dremeling on the linkage. I will have to check that out

[drumad]

When I did mine, I def had to grind away some meat on the coupler for it to not bind. Good thing for you, there's enough clearance to dremel while it's in the car.

[LuckyHenriksen]

Good to know, thanks!

[Wishno87]

My dad had the same issue with a rebuilt rack. Ended up sending it back and put a good used one in. Be sure to check out that linkage first though. God I hate when "new" stuff performs worse than original parts.

[LuckyHenriksen]

My dad had the same issue with a rebuilt rack. Ended up sending it back and put a good used one in. Be sure to check out that linkage first though. God I hate when "new" stuff performs worse than original parts.

Yea I am really hoping it isn't the so called new parts :(

[Andy.B]

Just replaced a reman rack twice. After about twenty miles and a big pop, the first one only had power steering turning right. Sometimes. At least everything came apart easily the second time. Sucks having to get it aligned again though.

[Landrunner]

I was going to start a thread but I guess I will post in here first. I recently had an E36 M3 rack put in my car along with a new steering coupler, new power steering pump, new reservoir, new strut top mounts, and all new power steering lines. The car is a 1990 325i and a few months back I did new control arms, tie rods, and sway bar end links.

I had the car aligned twice. The first shop aligned it with massive toe out and I have since had it done again using specs that people cite as being good for this kind of swap. I too have the same steering return problem. I do have 14" snow tires on the car but I have a tough time believing that is the big issue.

[Landrunner]

Any news on this?