172 Cup pulling to left

[172CupHGA]

Hi,

My 172 Cup pulls to the left. I have had it aligned 4 times and the problem persists. All suspension components are straight, tight, and there are no knocks or bangs. Tires are less than a year old. No accidents or kerb strikes.

I have three theories and was wondering if anyone else has had similar issue:

1. ARB bushes - these are cracked and need replacement.

2. Play in steering rack - A garage told me there is a minimal amount of play in the steering rack itself. I cannot replicate this on my mini-ramps.

3. Poor alignment - I don't think this is the case as I have used 4 different centres and the car always reverts to pulling to the left.

Has anyone else had a similar issue and can advise on the symptoms of worn ARB bushes and rack?

Thanks.

 

[Matt Cup]

Steering rack bushes could also be a factor.

 

[npt]

Fix anything that's worn first like the rack arms, or could be a slightly sticky caliper

 

[172CupHGA]

Thanks for the replies. The car has been gone over multiple times and no obvious worn or knocking parts. The springs , dampers, and top mounts were all replaced 3 months ago and the calipers rebuilt in the last month. These things needed doing anyway but have not stopped the car pulling.

Sounds like start with the bushes and work up to rack if they don't cure it.

 

[Myfanwyi Saunfire]

Thanks for the replies. The car has been gone over multiple times and no obvious worn or knocking parts. The springs , dampers, and top mounts were all replaced 3 months ago and the calipers rebuilt in the last month. These things needed doing anyway but have not stopped the car pulling.

Sounds like start with the bushes and work up to rack if they don't cure it.

Do you have the alignment print outs? If so, post them up.

My guess is probably rear beam. There never exactly set square and as they're non adjustable without shims - it's normally a culprit.
Will throw the thrust angle out - which affects steer ahead - making the car pull one way.

Rack bushes would make it feel like it was pulling from one side to the other - wouldn't just make it pull one way.

ARB, doubtful.

Try describing how it pulls left. Is it only under load/acceleration? Does it pull back to the right under braking?

 

[172CupHGA]

Do you have the alignment print outs? If so, post them up.

My guess is probably rear beam. There never exactly set square and as they're non adjustable without shims - it's normally a culprit.
Will throw the thrust angle out - which affects steer ahead - making the car pull one way.

Rack bushes would make it feel like it was pulling from one side to the other - wouldn't just make it pull one way.

ARB, doubtful.

Try describing how it pulls left. Is it only under load/acceleration? Does it pull back to the right under braking?

The pull is slightly more pronounced under acceleration but not by much. The arc is fairly consistent. The car needs constant right input to keep it pointing down the road.

 

[Myfanwyi Saunfire]

The pull is slightly more pronounced under acceleration but not by much. The arc is fairly consistent. The car needs constant right input to keep it pointing down the road.

Post the alignments you've had done 👍