Hi folks, just checking in with you guys before I send my 944 to the Porsche techs for a diag on a new problem that is developing. I am starting to get a strange vibration in the front end at speeds in the 40-60mph range that seem to get stronger or lighter as the suspension moves up and down over the variationson thehighway. I can feel it dissapear if I turn to the left and return when I turn back to center. The only way I can describe this feeling in the steering wheel and pedals is a fine buzzing type vibration that varies in intensity depending on the movement of the front end. Any ideas?

[IMG]local://upfiles/5963/93261CD103F54CC09AF682DFC22977B5.jpg[/IMG]

 

Hi you have described a concern that could have a range of causes (wheel balance is not fully explained by the left turn data) I would suppose a problem of wear in steering linkage, wheel bearings etc. When does the car go in?
Regards Big Bob

 

Hi Bob, to tell you the truth, I was waiting for a little input from you before I let the Porsche techs loose on the car, (Porsche taste, beer budget)so I'm gonna get a little advice from you first. Could the power steering pump be causing this fine vibration that could vary in intensity as you move the steering wheel?

 

Hi
I'm going to reply in a couple of posts because I've tried to send the complete answer twice now and lost my connection at the end of the reply. Yes the Valve Chest on the Steering Column which directs the Power Steering Fluid to the appropriate side of the Steering Ram can become worn and oil pressure can ossicilate from side to side of the ram giving you a vibration. However some other tests first per the next post:
Big Bob

 

I just lost the connection again when I sent the next post!!!! I'll E Mail you the rest.
Regards Big Bob

 

Hi lost connection at the end of the E Mail too.
Grab the wheels one at a time and with someone holding the steering wheel see if you can find some play in the steering linkage before you get a reaction at the Steering Wheel.
If you have play then there are 4 potential causes or a combination of them all:
See next post. Big Bob

 

As simple as this may seem, check your lug nuts on both front wheels. I checked the brakes on the front of my 944 one day and for some reason or another I simply forgot to double check the left side lugs before test driving. The front end was vibrating and the noise would go away if I turned to one side, and got worse if I turned to the other.

Tightened the lugs and its smooth as glass again