My ZX is making impolite noises...

KEB1 · Post by **KEB1** » 09 Jun 2007, 15:53

OK so coincidentally (I hope) since I had that tyre fitted and both front wheels balanced, on slight left or right turns of the s wheel when maneuvering what is best described as a momentary impolite noise can be heard from the steering system (power).
I jacked it up and had a good look round both sides and can't see anything out of place.
On the road it feels like new and handles extremely well due to the new tyre.
I have a few theories, which I hope are wrong, but has anyone else actually experienced the same occurance ?

Kristian.

Post by **Peter.N.** » 09 Jun 2007, 16:19

I know it sounds obvious but have you checked the fluid level and the belt tension?

jeremy · Post by **jeremy** » 09 Jun 2007, 16:30

Other things to check - seizure of the column universal joints - usually felt as high or stiff spots as the wheel is turned.

Many ZX have Bendix front brakes - which are notorious for harmless but alarming knocks when reversing - as the pads move in their sockets.

If it occurs when rotating the wheel and continues for a few moments - then fluid level would be the first place to check. I did have a PAS pump fail - bearings went and oil leaked onto the pulley which made it easy to trace.

Post by **CitroJim** » 09 Jun 2007, 17:21

jeremy wrote:Many ZX have Bendix front brakes - which are notorious for harmless but alarming knocks when reversing - as the pads move in their sockets.

Don't they just, especially if it has been damp and the car has not moved for a few days. The first time it happened on my 205 I stripped the calipers looking for the problem

Another possibility for the noise is binding in the strut top bearings.

KEB1 · Post by **KEB1** » 14 Jun 2007, 12:37

Hi All,

Thanks for all the replies. I checked everything that could be relevent and all seemed OK.
However, the noise has gone as mysteriously as it appeared. I was getting a bit concerned that it might be expensive like the rack or ram but there is a strong possibilty that there may have been air in the system.
If it was air, I don't know how it got in as there are no obvious leaks or fluid loss.
At present, all seems ok so fingers crossed.

All the best,

Kristian.